PAL Aerospace, Thales team up on next-gen MPA mission system

PAL Aerospace and Thales have signed a strategic agreement to co-develop the next generation of mission systems at the Defence Services Asia Exhibition & Conference (DSA) 2022.

As a result of this agreement, the next generation of mission system software will be developed to support the future of multi-mission maritime patrol solutions. The partners aim to innovate multi-mission maritime patrol aircraft (MPA) to boost effectiveness and functionality.

“Together, we are ready to co-develop the next generation of mission system that will innovate how multi-mission MPA’s save lives, defend territorial waters, and build maritime domain awareness,” said Keith Stoodley, Chief Executive Officer at PAL Aerospace LLC. 

“We will develop together the next generation of mission system to propose a cost-effective product based on our mutual field-proven experience in airborne maritime surveillance & patrol solutions,” Hervé Hamy, Vice President, intelligence, Surveillance, Reconnaissance activities, Thales added.

Targeted new capabilities of the new solution include machine learning, computer vision, optionally/remotely piloted aircraft systems support, underwater warfare defence and integration of space-based data into a complete mission lifecycle for dissemination in a common operating picture.

The development of these capabilities will be based cooperatively at PAL Aerospace and Thales facilities, supporting industry in Canada, UAE, and France.

Thales recently announced its engagement with the Hellenic Navy’s new defence and intervention (FDI HN) frigates. Under the contract, the company will supply radars and communication systems for the new vessels.