MARRS completes NiDAR installation aboard first Malaysian Navy LCS

Surveillance systems manufacturer MARSS has completed the installation of a NiDAR security system onboard the Royal Malaysian Navy’s first Gowind-based littoral combat ship KD Maharaja Lela.

The contract MARSS had with the Malaysian Navy included the design, integration, delivery, installation and commissioning of the NiDAR 360° air, surface and underwater anti-intruder security system.

NiDAR automatically detects and alerts operators against divers, underwater vehicles and small fast-moving surface intruders by integrating near and long-range surveillance with deterrents into one intelligent domain awareness picture.

The system integrates diver detection sonars, thermal imaging cameras and sensor feeds from onboard radar, as well as non-lethal deterrents. NiDAR will be operated via MARSS’ intuitive Command & Control (C2) interface from multiple fixed and mobile command stations onboard.

“MARSS established a strong working partnership with the Royal Malaysian Navy and Boustead Naval Shipyard to design and deliver a comprehensive world class vessel security system. Our NiDAR system redefines what can be achieved for maritime domain awareness leveraging Commercial Off The Shelf (COTS) equipment,“ said Rob Balloch, SVP of MARSS Group.

The first LCS was launched on August 24, and is now undergoing an outfitting process during which she will receive her sensors and armament.

As the Royal Malaysian Navy’s prime surface combatants, the six ships in the class are set to carry the Kongsberg-built Naval Strike Missile, MBDA’s VL MICA missiles, a Bofors 57mm Mk3 gun in a stealth casing and an automated MSI Seahawk 30mm gun. For anti-submarine warfare, the ships will be fitted with J+S torpedo launcher systems, now delivered by UK-based company SEA.