Thales has successfully integrated the first operational naval VL_Mica missile with the Tacticos naval combat management system on board the Royal Moroccan Navy’s first of three Sigma Class frigates, the Tarik ben Ziyad.
The RMNS Tarek Ben Ziad has also been equipped with MART-S Mk2 3D medium to long range surveillance radar, LIROD Mk2 tracking radar, KINGKLIP sonar system, IFF system as well as integrated navigation system.
Thales has also integrated the frigate with two target designation sights, Vigile ESM system, Scorpion ECM system, integrated communication system with external communication system and FOCON internal communication system.
The short range fire-and-forget VL_Mica missile system uses SMART-S Mk2 surveillance radar data to launch in the direction of the threat, which is directed by its integrated sensor.
The Tacticos system provides comprehensive situational understanding, optimised operator capabilities, increased mission success, maximised system availability, reduced life cycle costs as well as rapid delivery and is being used by 19 navies across the world.
The three multi-mission Sigma-class frigates are based on DSNS’s Sigma-approach and are an advanced variant of the Sigma corvettes used by the Indonesian Navy.
The Sigma-class frigate’s propulsion and sea keeping capabilities are ideally suited for Moroccan territorial waters operations, and the vessels are also capable of performing maritime patrols and surveillance in territorial waters and in exclusive economic zones.
The first frigate, Tarik Ben Zayid, was commissioned on 10 September 2011 and the second frigate, Sultan Moulay Ismail, will begin its maiden voyage to Morocco in April 2012 while the third frigate is currently under construction.
DSNS is building the frigates in Vlissingen for the Moroccan Navy as part of the navy’s plans to modernise its fleet and extend its patrol capabilities.
