ECA Group has completed the factory acceptance tests (FAT) for its command-and-control (C2) system and mine identification and disposal system (MIDS).
The successful completion of FATs marks a significant milestone in the Latvian Navy’s programme to modernise its Tripartite-class (IMANTA-class) minehunter vessels.
ECA was selected for this programme through an international tender in 2020.
The latest trials involved assessing the functionalities and interfaces of sensors, along with testing the vessel’s C2 system with warship electronic chart display and information system (W-ECDIS) and autopilot.
Under this test, the Navy also performed a mine identification simulation with the SEASCAN remotely operated vehicle (ROV) and a firing simulation with the K-STER for mine disposal vehicle.
Latvian Navy M-08 commander Arturs Knoks said: “So far, I am satisfied with the performances of K-STER and SEASCAN.”
The modernisation programme will see the Latvian Navy replace its legacy mine warfare system with a new C2 system along with a complete set of drones.
All the drones and systems in this programme are being designed and developed by ECA Group.
The company will provide ten K-STER systems, two SEASCAN ROVs and an A18-M mid-size autonomous underwater vehicle armed with UMISAS Sonar and a common software suite for each ship.
Furthermore, ECA will also upgrade the navigation system of the three ships, which will comprise W-ECDIS, iXblue Gaps M7 Ultra Short BaseLine positioning system and Phins C7 compact inertial navigation system as well as a new Autopilot by SIREHNA.
Latvian Navy MCM squadron upgrade programme manager Dmitrijs Jankovs said: “The work progress on this programme is fast enough.
“I see big efforts from ECA Group side to develop new sensors and systems based on our requests.”
