U.S. Navy Receives First Thales CAPTAS-4 Sonar for Constellation Frigates

The first CAPTAS-4 variable-depth sonar transmitter from Thales has been successfully delivered to the U.S. Navy's Constellation Frigate Program (FFG-62).

Advanced Acoustic Concepts (AAC), a subsidiary of Thales, completed the delivery on October 12, 2023, Thales announced today.

Thales' sonar technology was selected by Fincantieri Marinette Marine, in collaboration with the U.S. Navy, to equip its newly commissioned frigates. In addition to the two systems already ordered to date, the current contract allows for the potential supply of up to eight additional CAPTAS-4 transmitter assemblies.

Looking ahead, AAC is set to conclude the construction of a new CAPTAS production facility in April. This facility will be situated at their existing site near Uniontown, Pennsylvania, serving as the hub for final assembly, integration, and acceptance testing for shipsets two through 10.

The CAPTAS family encompasses a range of low-frequency variable-immersion sonars specifically designed for anti-submarine warfare. Notably, the CAPTAS-4 variant delivered to the U.S. Navy stands out as the most powerful within the CAPTAS family.