Thales Unveils Groundbreaking CAPTAS-4 Sonar System for the U.S. Navy

The initial CAPTAS-4 variable-depth sonar transmitter has been successfully handed over to the U.S. Navy’s Constellation Frigate Program (FFG-62). This early delivery highlights the efficiency of Thales as a reliable ally to global naval forces. The U.S. Navy will take advantage of the proven dependability and effectiveness of the CAPTAS-4, the undisputed leader in submerged variable-depth active systems.

AAC delivered the system on Oct. 12, 2023, prior to contractual deadlines while operating under highly demanding time limits. Thales’ unmatched sonar technology was selected by Fincantieri Marinette Marine, in collaboration with the U.S. Navy to outfit its new frigates. In addition to the two units already ordered thus far, as many as eight more CAPTAS-4 transmitter assemblies may be provided under the current agreement. From this standpoint, in April, AAC will finalize construction on a new CAPTAS manufacturing site situated at their existing location near Uniontown, Pennsylvania, where the final assembly, integration, and acceptance testing will occur for shipsets two through ten.

Thales boasts over 50 years of expertise in underwater combat and is recognized as the world’s premier sonar exporter. The CAPTAS family features a range of low-frequency variable-immersion sonars specifically designed for anti-submarine warfare. The CAPTAS-4 delivered to the U.S. Navy is the most potent variant within the CAPTAS lineup. It has been evaluated under a diverse range of operational scenarios, for example, by the French, British, and Italian navies, and its technological maturity and efficacy are acknowledged globally.

In 2020, 2021, and 2022, multiple French multi-mission frigates equipped with the CAPTAS-4 system achieved the distinguished Hook’Em Award, the American accolade for excellence presented to the best crew performance in the domain of anti-submarine warfare during coalition exercises in the 6th Fleet operational area. Thales was highlighted and commended for the superiority of its expertise, for the capacity of its sonar systems to detect, identify, classify, and track increasingly elusive and silent threats beneath the waves.

“Thales has been a longstanding provider of advanced and proficient ASW systems to the U.S. Navy and prominent U.S. prime contractors. With this new agreement for the provision of CAPTAS-4 variable depth sonar, we are once again showcasing the efficacy of our acoustic systems and reinforcing their trust in our teams,” stated Gwendoline Blandin-Roger, Vice President, Underwater Systems, Thales.

“Advanced Acoustic Concepts is thrilled to announce that we have successfully delivered the first CAPTAS-4 variable depth sonar system for the U.S. Navy’s FFG-62, the inaugural vessel of the new U.S. Frigate class,” remarked Mike Carnovale, President and CEO of AAC. “We anticipate further supporting the U.S. Navy as we continue to provide and uphold this essential ASW capability well into the future.”