The MCSP’s
objective is to provide a long-term sustainment and improvement of the
ASW capability of the helicopters and gradually transform them into
multi-role platforms. The cost of the programme is at USD750 million.
The upgraded Mk2 helicopters will feature high-end systems and capabilities,
with Lockheed Martin UK being the main integrator. These include a management
system and state-of-the-art glass cockpit (AgustaWestland), new solid-state
storage unit (Saab), an upgrade of the Blue Kestrel surveillance radar
of the Mk1 with SAR/ISAR modes and enhanced track-while-scan capability
(Selex ES), an acoustic system suite that can perform both passive sonobouy
and active sonar dipping search (Thales), a Data Preparation Facility
and the Civil Navigation Database Loader (BAE Systems), an upgraded
cockpit simulator with training devices for the whole of the crew (CAE)
and 24-inch displays for the mission system operators (Barco). |
