Sypris Electronics, a subsidiary of Sypris Solutions, Inc. has entered into a multi-year follow-on contract with the US Department of Defence (DOD) to produce and test electronic power supply modules for a large, mission-critical US Navy program.
As disclosed, the contract calls for a significant increase in production volume from existing levels beginning in 2022. The upgrade will provide the capability to actively jam incoming missiles that threaten a warship, cue decoys, and adapt quickly to evolving threats.
Furthermore, the improvements to the electronic attack portion are expected to provide integrated countermeasures against radio frequency-guided threats and extended frequency range coverage according to the US Navy.
“We are pleased to have solidified our long-term partnership on this important program,” said Mark R. Kane , Vice President & General Manager of Sypris Electronics.
“The opportunity to expand our role as a critical solution provider for our customer and the U.S. Navy is certainly a privilege for Sypris. We look forward to delivering this important technology for years to come.”
Other terms of the contract were not disclosed.
Sypris Electronics emphasized that the system is software-defined and, unlike analog radars of the past, the transmitters and receivers can easily adjust to send and receive different waveforms, allowing the system to be more easily adaptable.
The adaptability for active electronic attacks comes as foreign aggressors are simultaneously developing several new classes of missiles at a significant rate. Systems like this program and new directed energy weapons are part of the US Navy’s efforts to enhance the useful life of deployed missile systems.
The system’s capability for non-kinetic electronic attack options can be further deployed in additional critical areas.
From advanced communications to multi-role waveforms, the multi-function applications of the system will provide enhanced mission capabilities to the US Navy Fleet while presenting opportunities for future reductions in cost, size, weight, and power according to the US Naval Institute.