Norway's ULA-class Submarine Fleet to Receive Upgraded Periscopes, Optronic Systems

HENSOLDT has completed a Critical Design Review (CDR) for the modernisation of Norway's ULA-class submarines.

Held in Bergen, the CDR validated the technical planning and execution, confirming the systems' readiness for installation.

Under a €40 million contract with the Norwegian Defence Materiel Agency (NDMA), HENSOLDT will upgrade the submarines' periscope and optronic mast systems, replacing the original SERO 14/15 models. This upgrade will enhance the operational efficiency and lifespan of the submarines. All design documents and interface drawings passed the review, ensuring smooth integration of the new systems.

Norway’s fleet consists of six Ula-class submarines, which have been in service since the late 1980s. Despite their age, these submarines have undergone upgrades to their combat systems and sensors, along with life-extension measures to maintain operational capability. This modernisation aims to extend the operational life of the ULA-class submarines until the country’s next-generation 212CD submarines enter service in the 2030s.

The HENSOLDT contract follows last month's award to Kongsberg for upgrading the ULA-class submarines' combat systems. Built by Thyssenkrupp Nordseewerke, the boats are 59 meters long, with a beam of 5.4 meters and a draft of 4.6 meters. They have surfaced and submerged displacements of 1,040 tonnes and 1,150 tonnes, respectively.