Thales and SonarTech team up on mine warfare systems in South Korea

Korean defense SME, SonarTech and Thales have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) for joint in-depth research and development in mine warfare sonar systems.

On the opening day of DX Korea 2022, SonarTech and Thales signed an MoU for research and development in mine warfare variable depth sonars for the next generation of mine countermeasure vessels (MCMVs). 

Through this MoU, Thales will provide its operational expertise in the field of high-frequency Variable Depth Sonars (VDS) for mine warfare sonar systems.  

On the other hand, SonarTech will bring its technical knowledge in the field of underwater acoustic products and mine warfare hull-mounted sonar inboard electronics.

Thales has been a long-term partner to the Korean armed forces, supplying equipment including radars, sonars and fire control systems to the Republic of Korea Navy (ROKN) since the early 1990s.

The company has actively supported technical cooperation with local Korean partners and military research institutions including SonarTech and LIG Nex 1, by providing equipment, technology and engineering assistance to develop local equipment. 

“As a proud Korean company, we have industry-leading sonar equipment but we also bring a solid understanding of the needs of the Korean armed forces. This win-win partnership is a key example of how Korean companies can successfully make their mark in the global defense industry and help drive the Korean defense sector forward,” PARK Seungsoo, Chief Executive Officer, SonarTech said.

Thales Korea was also honored to receive a Certificate of Commendation from the Korea Research Institute for Defense Technology Planning and Advancement (KRIT) for its continued contributions to the Korean defense industry for close to forty years.

As the governmental research agency under the Korean Defense Acquisition Program Administration (DAPA), KRIT undertakes the planning, management, and evaluation of defense technology that supports the Korean defense industry. 

“Our presence in Korea dates back close to 40 years, and today, we are committed to helping the country build its local indigenous capabilities and support the armed forces as they modernize their capabilities,” Sandy GILLIO, Country Director, Thales Korea, noted.