DCNS has successfully launched a new shore-based integration facility for the Brazilian Navy’s next-generation conventional-propulsion submarines combat system at the French defence procurement agency’s Saint-Mandrier-sur-Mer centre near Toulon.
Developed in cooperation between DCNS and the Brazilian Navy under a technology transfer agreement spanning submarine design, development and construction, the new facility will be used to test the submarines’ sophisticated data processing systems prior to installation while providing significant time savings.
The combat system of the first Scorpene submarine of the Brazilian Navy will be integrated and interfaced with the shore integration facility in a technical configuration.
DCNS/Brazilian Navy teams will test combat systems for Brazil’s Scorpene submarines, as well as train Brazilian officers and crew in accordance with the technology transfer agreement over the next two years.
Following completion of testing, the components will be transferred for integration onto the submarines at the Itaguaí shipyard near Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.
Brazil placed an order in December 2008, for the construction of four diesel-electric-powered submarines based on the Scorpene to joint venture company set up by DCNS and Odebrecht of Brazil.
Scheduled to enter service in 2017, the Scorpene submarines will protect and defend Brazil’s 8,500km coastline, while meeting the detailed specifications of the Brazilian Navy.
The versatile vessels can conduct a full range of missions including anti-surface and anti-submarine warfare, special operations and intelligence gathering.
Image: A DCNS-built submarine at sea. Photo: courtesy of DCNS.
