EURONAVAL 2022 SHOW REPORT
EURONAVAL NAVY SHOW IN PARIS
EURONAVAL 2022, the International Naval Defence & Maritime Safety & Security Exhibition was held from 18th to 21st October 2022 at Le Bourget in Paris. With its 27th Edition completing 55 Years, Euronaval maintained its position as a World-Class Show in Naval Defence & Maritime Safety & Security and a promoter of Innovation and new Naval & Maritime Technologies covering Surface Warfare, Undersea Technologies and Naval Air Systems as well.
EURONAVAL 2022 SHOW REPORT
At EURONAVAL 2022, Naval Group and the French Defence Procurement Agency (DGA) presented the PANG Mock-up, whose design is almost final, and detailed its technical characteristics.
The PANG is scheduled to enter service in 2038. At 75,000 metric tons, with room for nearly 40 Combat Aircraft & Helicopters, it will be the largest Military building ever built in Europe.
After four years of waiting and a fully digitized 2020 edition during the Covid-19 pandemic, the EURONAVAL Show opened its doors for its 27th edition, on October 18th, 2022. In total, nearly 450 exhibitors, official delegations from more than 100 countries from 5 continents and nearly 25,000 trade visitors were at Paris Le Bourget for EURONAVAL 2022. Ministerial visits, exclusive presentation of the model of the new French Aircraft Carrier, preliminary consortium agreement MMPC, revelation of the new Industrial Group EXAIL born from the merger of ECA Group and iXblue, the opening day of EURONAVAL 2022 was rich in events.
The EURONAVAL Exhibition brings together, for each edition, a professional visit composed of political and military decision-makers, expert buyers, prescribers and industrialists who come to discover the latest Naval Platforms, Equipment & Systems.
EURONAVAL received a visit from the French Minister of the Armed Forces, Sébastien Lecornu. Earlier in the day, the French Secretary of State for the Sea, Hervé Berville, also visited the exhibition to meet with exhibiting manufacturers and discover their latest technological innovations.
The Chief of Staff of the Armed Forces, General Thierry Burkhard, the General Delegate for Armaments (DGA) Emmanuel Chiva and the Chief of Staff of the Navy, Admiral Pierre Vandier also honoured the show with their presence.
New French Aircraft Carrier PANG
Announced in 2018 at EURONAVAL by the Minister of the Armed Forces Florence Parly, the French New Generation Aircraft carrier (PANG) is becoming, four years later, even more of a reality. For the opening of EURONAVAL 2022, Naval Group and the French Defence Procurement Agency (DGA) presented the PANG Mock-up, whose design is almost final, and detailed its technical characteristics.
The PANG is scheduled to enter service in 2038. At 75,000 metric tons, with room for nearly 40 Combat Aircraft and Helicopters and 2,000 people onboard, it will be the largest Military building ever built in Europe.
European shipyards sign preliminary MMPC consortium agreement: In July 2022, the European Commission selected the proposal submitted by the consortium led by Naviris with Fincantieri, Naval Group and Navantia for the Modular and Multi-Role Patrol Corvette (MMPC) call. Following this decision, the CEOs of the four companies signed a preliminary consortium agreement at EURONAVAL.
The main objective of the agreement signed will be to develop the initial design of the ship, maximizing innovation, synergies and collaboration between European Shipbuilding Companies. This project is an open door to future European cooperation on a Naval Project.
ECA Group and iXblue Join Forces to become Exail: The two French companies chose the EURONAVAL Exhibition to announce their Partnership under the name Exail, following the acquisition of iXblue by Group Gorgé at the end of September. With this alliance, Exail becomes a global high-tech industrial champion specialized in advanced technologies in Robotics, Maritime, Navigation, Aerospace and Photonics. Exail will enable the 1,500 employees of the two entities to join forces under a common brand name, and thus broaden its technological offering to its customers.
The last show in 2018 marked the 50th Anniversary of Euronaval, the Naval & Maritime trade show that grows and attracts more exhibitors and visitors with every edition. The 27th Edition of Euronaval highlighted the issues at stake for the French Naval Industry and furthermore for the Naval Industry on a global scale, and the strong dynamics of the Naval & Maritime market. Euronaval is the world showcase for the Naval Defence Industry, which represents around 50 Billion Euros in sales worldwide.
Created above 50 years ago, Euronaval is one of the most important events on the Naval and Maritime Industry calendar. Euronaval has traditionally covered missions ranging from Naval Sovereignty to State actions at Sea and Maritime Safety & Security, including the enforcement of public order at Sea, Marine, Maritime & fisheries policing and Maritime & Coastal Surveillance, etc. Euronaval is also an event for Naval Drone (UXV) manufacturers and Satellite Applications, including Communications, Navigation, Weather, Defence and Security. The Conference programme included debates on the safe and secure use of the seas for Civil and Military purposes.
Euronaval 2022 presented Surface Combatants, Submarines, Fast Commando Craft with their Weapons and Equipment, Surface and Underwater Drones, Naval Aircraft, AUSVs (Autonomous Unmanned Surface Vehicles), as well as new concepts, particularly for Stealth. Euronaval has already confirmed its status as one of the best events in the agenda of key players in the international market of Naval Defence & Maritime Security for the latest technologies in Naval Defence and Maritime Safety and Security.
Of the 110 Nations that purchase Naval Equipment, more than 90 had accepted the French Government’s invitation to come with Official Delegations and discover what was on offer in the six most relevant activity sectors: Naval Defence, Maritime Environment, Transport and Infrastructures, Maritime Safety and Security, Services and Naval Research & Engineering.
With the presence of a number of prestigious guests including several Defence Ministers, Ambassadors, Navy Chiefs of Staff, Delegations of Coast Guards and Defence Attachés, Euronaval proved to be the most important international event for contractors and influencers in a market valued at about 50 Billion Euros, solely for Naval Defence Construction.
The French Navy, renowned for its operational expertise and the quality of its Vessels and Equipment once again provided a significant contribution to the prestige and content of the Exhibition, having invited Official Delegations to attend, with insitu demonstrations of materials on Sea-proven Ships. One of the main trends that emerges is the keen interest shown by Maritime Nations for purchasing Coastal Surveillance Vessels, such as Off-Shore Patrol Vessels, Intermediate-size Corvettes or Frigates. The other major trend was the determination of a number of countries to develop their Submarine Fleets, with Acquisition Projects in progress in Australia, Sweden, Poland, Norway, India and Indonesia.
Among the new products being presented at the exhibition, Euronaval displayed Commando Vessels with their Weapons and Equipment, Surface Drones and Submarines, Aircraft, AUSV (Autonomous Unmanned Surface Vehicles). New Concepts, in particular those related to Stealth Operations, were also on show. Euronaval is one of the most important Naval Defence events in the world.
International Context
The Military Naval Construction Sector is less sensitive to any global economic crisis than Civil Construction, which itself needs to be considered sector by sector. Certain sectors such as Cruise Ship Construction are experiencing a period of increased order demand. Military Naval Construction and Security is directly dependent on the evolution of international relations and global security levels.A number of Maritime countries are legitimately choosing to strengthen their Navy’s Equipment Economic Maritimisation and international trade are also accompanied by an increased need for Surveillance and Protection of Exclusive Economic Zones (EEZs), of Shipping routes and Coastal or Port/Harbour Zones.
Maritime Nations are thus confronted with an imperative need to reinforce their assets in terms of Naval Surveillance. There is also the need to invest funds to equip themselves with Blue Water Navies, with Air-Sea Surveillance and Intervention Capacities and an increase in offers of New-Gen Submarines. It has become clear that the number of Submarines programmes has substantially increased across the world in the last few years, along with LPDs & Fleet Support Vessels.
Highly Valued Specialisation
In the context of Global Ocean Militarisation, the Naval Sector Industries appreciate major strategic events where the presentation of their products and innovations are brought to the attention of decision-makers and purchasers from Navies across the globe. Euronaval has become an unmissable event for those who design, produce and equip Navies of the future.
Since its creation in 1968, Euronaval has been exclusively devoted to Naval Defence and Maritime Security. This specialisiation in the Naval Sector allows it to attract the most astute industrial and State experts, and to offer a privileged venue for supply and demand of all types of Aircraft Carriers, Ship Equipment, Naval Aircraft, Maritime Helicopters and Drones that meet the wide range of demanding operational needs of those Coastal States concerned for their Defence and Security.
One of the highlights of the Exhibition is the opening address, and the Conference, co-organised by the GICAN, giving key personalities the opportunity to debate the new challenges faced in Defence and Security at and from the sea. Euronaval’s strength is its specialisation, dealing exclusively with Naval, Naval Aviation and Submarine-Undersea Defence matters. Delegations are essentially made up of Naval Officers and experts of Maritime Operations.
50 Billion Euro Yearly Naval Defence Market
On a global scale, the Military Naval Sector alone represents about 50 Billion Euros, corresponding to delivieries of Defence Vessels alone. The American market is stable and remains the largest, with about 15 Billion Dollars per year. This is followed by India, Australia and the Far East, all on the rise, with figures close to about 14 Billion Dollars, not including future Submarine contracts. The China-Russia block is showing strong growth and represents about 10 Billion Dollars of investments each year.
Export markets are consequently growing too. From the Asia-Pacific Region, the American continent and the Middle East through to Africa, order prospects are very strong, from heavily armed large warships to small Fast Patrol Boats, covering the whole range of Surface and Submarine Naval capacities as well as Maritime Surveillance. While Naval export has long been the prerogative of European Naval Industries, today the market is more broadly shared. The United States has increased its exports, while China and South Korea have become major actors in the Maritime Sector. Turkey and Japan are also increasing their share of the export market for Naval materials, and the presence of the Japanese Industry in contests for Submarine Force Equipment is an important indication of this.
The desire of a number of countries to develop their Submarine Fleets, with important Acquisition Projects underway in Australia, India, Poland, Norway, the Netherlands and Indonesia. The high level of interest from Maritime Nations for the aquisition of Coastal Surveillance Vessels, Open Sea Patrol Vessels, Intermediate-sized Corvettes and Frigates, etc. The development of Surface and Submarine Drones, Aircraft, AUSV (Autonomous Unmanned Surface Vehicles), UUVs/ROVs, and newer concepts in relation to Stealth Technologies designs, etc. are the current market trends.
34 Start-Ups at SEAnnovation Incubator
A dedicated area for Start-Ups at Euronaval 2022 had developed relevant solutions and technologies for the Naval Defence Industry. Euronaval has the Innovation Area dedicated to Start-Ups with the contribution of Eolos.
SEAnnovation, the EURONAVAL exhibition’s business incubator was first created in 2018, SEAnnovation was at the heart of the exhibition and aimed to host and promote above thirty French and foreign Start-Ups in a dedicated space animated by round tables, keynotes and pitches over the four days. All Start-Ups involved in Technological Innovation in the Naval Defence or Dual-Use Sector, including Vehicles of the Future, Predictive Maintenance, Connectivity, Cyber Defence or Artificial Intelligence (AI) for Navies, were invited to exhibit. The aim was to cover all areas of Naval Defence expertise, entering into an ecosystem dedicated to Innovation.
For the selected Start-Ups, this was an unique opportunity to get to know the Naval Industry’s prime contractors, to meet Naval Officers and decision-makers from all over the world. The SEAnnovation space, strategically located near the Ministry of Defence and GICAN stands, allows Start-Ups to take advantage of the exhibition’s international visibility to develop their reputation. SEAnnovation was one of the great successes of EURONAVAL.
Euronaval is the largest international exhibition of Naval Defence and Maritime Security and Safety. Organised every two years in Paris-Le Bourget, this exhibition brought together decision makers from Navies and the International Naval Industry. A prestigious showcase of innovation and technologies in the sector, Euronaval gives Navy representatives from all over the world the opportunity to discover the Naval Materials of the Future. Euronaval is a GICAN event – French Marine Industry Group - organised by its subsidiary SOGENA.
Euronaval International Conference
To better meet the expectations of exhibitors and visitors, Euronaval had earlier decided to shorten its format and dedicate the day before, which traditionally marked the opening of the exhibition, to an International Conference. It brought together high-level Speakers from Industry, Ministries, Navies and think tanks, which address current and prospective important topics of Naval Defence. The Conference focused in particular on the Maritime ambitions of powerful States, Technological Innovations, Capacity gaps and the Digitisation of Maritime space.
A face-to-face Conference in partnership with the FRS (Foundation for Strategic Research) on Naval and Maritime Defence, with the interventions of the CESM and the DGA, was held on October 17th at the Novotel Tour Eiffel Paris.
COLLOQUIUM: Euronaval organises the face-to-face colloqium, in partnership with the Foundation for Strategic Research (FRS). Speakers from the political, military, industrial and academic worlds addressing the major issues of naval defence and maritime security. Welcome Speech was by Dr Xavier Pasco, Director of the Foundation for Strategic Research (FRS), and Opening Remarks by Admiral Pierre Vandier, Chief of Staff of the French Navy.
Roundtable 1. Naval Forces facing High-Intensity Combat
[Moderator] Vice Admiral Patrick Hébrard, Associate Research Fellow, FRS, on The French Navy's Capability Strategy for 2030 by Rear Admiral Eric Malbrunot, Deputy Chief of Naval Operations for Plans and Programs for the French Navy; NATO’s Maritime Strategy: Lessons from Russia's War on Ukraine, NATO's Allied Maritime Command (MARCOM) by Vice Admiral Didier Piaton, Deputy Commander – SNR FRA, NATO's Allied Maritime Command (MARCOM); Evolution of U.S. Maritime Strategy in the context of the war in Ukraine and the rise of Chinese Naval Power, by Bryan Clark, senior fellow and Director, Center for Defence Concepts and Technology, Hudson Institute; Strenghening Naval Forces’ Capabilities through Cooperation: the Swedish Perspective, by Brigadier General Patric Hjorth, Head of Naval Divison, FMV, Sweden; Speech by Emmanuel Chiva, Chief Executive of the Direction Générale pour l’Armement (DGA).
Roundtable 2. Naval Warfare and Technological Advantages
[Moderator] Dr Nicolas Mazzucchi, Research Director, Strategic Studies Center of the French Navy, All-domain dimension of High-Intensity Naval Combat by Philippe Gros, Senior Research Fellow, FRS; Integration of Unmanned and Autonomous Systems in Naval Combat by Frédéric Le Lidec, Director of R&D and Innovation, Naval Group; Naval Combat Systems: Towards a Collaborative Approach by Xavier Mesnet, Director of Naval Segment, Thales; The Use of Space Assets for Naval Operations by Didier Alary, DATech Consultant, Senior Research Fellow Chaire SIRIUS; Next-Generation Deep Strike and Anti-Ship Systems by Representative of MBDA; Concluding Remarks by Pierre Eric Pommellet, CEO of Naval Group and GICAN President.
Thematic Workshops
Euronaval is the privileged International Meeting Point for Contractors, Industrialists, Experts and Decision Makers of Navies from the five continents. The exhibition organised a series of Thematic Workshops that allowed industrial entrepreneurs and institutions to exchange on technological and operational subjects. Some themes during these workshops, include Joint Operations: Air & Sea / Amphibious / Special Operations; Amphibious Vessels; Naval Warfare Domains: Surface / Submarine / Air / Mines / Electronics; Anti Access / Area Denial (A2/AD) Operational Concept VAE(2S); Handheld Sonar for Divers; Surface and Underwater Sensor Suites; State Action & Coastguard Functions; Law Enforcement at Sea & Coast Guarding Missions; HF Radar for Maritime Surveillance; Maritime Surveillance by Satellite; Maritime Surveillance of Large Zones around the Alexandria Project; Cyber Security & Digitisation; Cyber Security and Digitisation; Implementing IT and OT Detection Probes in a constrained environment; Designing rapid Cyber coverage for implementation in the event of attack, etc.
Underwater Drones & Robotics: Decision-making Autonomy of Underwater Drones; Autonomous Launch and Recovery of AUVs; MCM Capabilities; Side Scan Sonar; Autonomous Vessels and Underwater; Shipyard of the Future & The Digital Vessel; Hull Vane in Future Surface Warship Designs: Leaner, Meaner and Quieter; The Future and the Digital Vessel; Aerospace and Defence Research, thought leadership and capabilities; Reinforcing the Appeal of Naval Professions with 3D Training Simulator.
Euronaval 2022 Highlights
With about 450 exhibitors (vs about 480 in 2018) from 33 Nationalities including France; about 280 exhibitors from abroad, with 30% from around Europe; 15,000 sqm of exhibition space. 105 countries representing the 5 continents and 4 international organisations officially invited by the French Ministry of Defence and the exhibition organiser, including Ministers, CEMM, DNA, Coast Guards, Customs, etc., and about 25,000 professional visitors attending, with many media partners and accredited journalists, etc.
Exhibits Profile included: Ships and Vessels; Infrastructures and Naval Bases; Aircraft and Aircraft Equipment; Drones and Robotics; Propulsion and Energy; Weapons and Ammunition Systems; Communication, Information and Navigation; Electronic Warfare; Cyber Defence; Hydrography, Oceanography and Marine environment; Maritime Security and Safety; Special Operations; Training, Education and Simulation; Naval Architecture and Maritime Engineering; Repairs, Maintenance and dismantling; Divers components and Equipment Services.
Main representations by major countries included: France 169, Germany 25, Italy 25, Australia 32, United Kingdom 22, Netherlands 16, USA 16, Brazil 13; with above 10 National Pavilions, including: Germany, Australia, Brazil, Chile, Denmark, Italy, Netherlands, United Kingdom, USA & 4 Regional Pavilions: Brittany International Commerce, CCI Paris Île de France, EDEN Cluster and Pole Mer Méditerranée.
FOCUS CYBER: Vistors discovered the latest and most effective solutions in the field of Digital Protection of Systems and specially developed for the Naval Industry.
EURONAVAL AWARDS for Naval Innovation: Awards reserved for exhibitors to reward the most Innovative Manufacturers in the Naval Defence Sector. The “EURONAVAL AWARDS for Naval Innovation”, were awarded during the exhibition.
Airbus Helicopter highlighted its VSR 700 UAS. The French Armament General Directorate (DGA) signed a procurement contract with Airbus Helicopter for a second prototype of this sytem, which is being developed within the frame of the SDAM (Système de Drone Aérien de la Marine) Programme for the French Navy.
International Exhibitors
AIAD and MoD Italy; Abeking & Rasmussen, Germany; Amphenol, France; Areva TA, France; Atlas Elektronik GmbH, Germany; Austal, Australia; Babcock, UK; BAE Systems, UK; BMTI - Groupe Alcen, France; Caterpillar, France; CEA Technologies, Australia; Chanakya Aerospace, Defence & Maritime Review, India; Chemring Countermeasures, UK; Cilas, France; CMN - Constructions Mecaniques De Normandie, France; CNIM, France; Controp Precision Technologies, Israel; Cummins, France; Daewoo Shipbuilding & Marine Engineering, South Korea; Damen Schelde Naval Shipbuilding, Netherlands; Dassault Aviation, France; Defense Conseil International (DCI), France; Deschamps, France; Direction Générale De La Gendarmerie Nationale, France; DSIT Solutions, Israel; EXAIL, France; ECA, France; Elettronica, Italy; Fincantieri, Italy; TeledyneFlir, USA; FN Herstal, Belgium; Fr. Luerssen Werft, Germany; GE Marine, USA; Gem Elettronica, Italy; General Atomics, USA; GICAN, France; HENSOLDT, Germany; Hamilton Jet, UK; HGH Infrared Systems, France; Hutchinson, France; Hyundai Heavy Industries, South Korea; Intermarine Spa, Italy; Israel Aerospace Industries (IAI), Israel; IXBlue, France; Kallman Worldwide, USA; Kelvin Hughes, UK; Kongsberg, Norway; L3Harris Technologies, USA; Lacroix, France; Leonardo, Italy, Lockheed Martin, USA; Man Diesel & Turbo, France; Marine Jet Power, UK; MBDA, France; Medav, Germany; MSI Defence Systems Ltd, UK; MTU Friedrichshafen, Germany; NATO Support Agency, Luxembourg; Navantia, Spain; Naval Group, France; NBC Sys, France; Netherlands Industries for Defence and Security - NIDV, Netherlands; Nexter, France; Palfinger, France; Panasonic France; Piriou, France; Rafael Advanced Defense Systems Ltd., Israel; Raytheon Technologies, USA; Renk AG, Germany; Rheinmetall Defence, Germany; Saab AB, Sweden; Safran Group, France; Schiebel, Austria; Schneider Electric, France; Singapore Technologies Engineering, Singapore; Society of Maritime Industries, UK; STX France, Survey Copter, France; TE Connectivity, France; Team Defence Australia; Tecknisolar - Seni, France; Terma AS, Denmark; Thales, France; ThyssenKrupp, Germany; UKTI, UK; Wärtsilä Corporation, Finland; Zodiac, France.
Essence of Euronaval
Euronaval takes place over 4 days at the gateway to Paris. Every two years it offers state and private decision-makers from all over the world the most important international platform to familiarise themselves with the latest technological innovations dedicated to Naval Defence and Maritime Security. On an international scale the demand for Naval Equipment has risen sharply in the last few years and this biennial event meets this demand by bringing together the largest panel of industrialists, designers and suppliers of materials, simple or Complex Systems and associated Services. Among the 110 Nations around the world with sea borders, about 105 countries accepted the French Government’s invitation to visit Euronaval.
The growing awareness of the economic and geostrategic issues surrounding oceans over these last few years has led to a strong increase in the global demand for innovative Naval Defence and Maritime Security Equipment, particularly in the Asia-Pacific Region, in Europe and the Middle East. The key trends of these new demands were in the offers presented at the 27th Edition of Euronaval. There was a high level of interest shown from Maritime Nations for the acquisition of Coastal Surveillance Vessels, Sea Patrol Vessels, Corvettes & Frigates, Destroyers, LPDs, FSS, High-Speed Interceptors, Drones, Missiles, Radar, MPAs, USVs, Systems, UW Tech, etc.
With SMEs shaping the Future of Naval Technologies, the exhibition displayed innovative SME Projects that shape the future of Naval Capabilities. The GICAN is particularly involved in Innovation and Technologies of the future. It co-facilitates the Naval Solutions - “Tomorrow’s Transportation” programme with the State and the CORICAN (Orientation Council for Research and Innovation in Building and Naval Activities). These programmes and tools make it possible to focus Research and Innovation in line with the public policy strategy adapted by the Industry’s Strategic Committee. The GICAN leads technological roadmaps that group businesses together, including a number of innovative SMEs.
Euronaval 2022 was an unique opportunity to promote products and know-how, to initiate and develop customer relationships, to develop networking and to show innovative capacity. International networking, presenting new technologies and latest innovations, meetings with clients and to build loyalty, Euronaval also helped to identify prospective clients and future Partners.
Latest French Navy PANG Aircraft Carrier Design
An updated design of the PANG (Porte-Avions de Nouvelle Génération) New Generation Aircraft Carrier was unveiled on Day One of Euronaval 2022. The most striking evolution in the design is on the Island of the Carrier. Its general shape has evolved quite significantly compared to the initial design unveiled in 2020. While it used to be shaped like a “water drop”, it is now more more “square”. The Bridge Design has change, as well as the Mast. While the new model on display at Euronaval still featured the SeaFire Radar (in four fixed panels configuration), the “Cone” at the top of the Island is gone to make way for an Array of Domes for Satellite Communication. Behind the Island, there is now a Helicopter Spot as well as an area to conduct Aircraft Maintenance on the Flight Deck. While less noticeable, the shape of the Flight Deck has evolved too, as the modifications were made so that the design would better accommodate a third EMALS, should it be needed. For Self-Protection, the new PANG scale model now featured a number of SIMBAD-RC, RapidFire CIWS, VLS for Aster Missiles and the new CMLS Anti-Torpedo Decoy Launchers.
The construction of a new Nuclear-Powered Aircraft Carrier as part of the PA-Ng programme was cleared two years ago (8th December 2020). The future flagship of the Marine Nationale is intended to replace the existing Charles de Gaulle by around 2038. The latest Technical Specification of France’s Future Aircraft Carrier are as follows (Preliminary Design Data): Full Load Displacement: ~ 75,000 t; Overall Length: 310 m; Length at Waterline: 305 m; Width at Waterline: 39 m; Flight Deck Surface Area: ~ 17,000 m²; Max Draught: 10.8 m; Two or three 90-meter Electromagnetic Catapults (EMALS) by General Atomics; Airwing: ~30 New Generation Fighter (NGF) and Rafale M; Maximum Speed: 30 knots (more than Charles de Gaulle). Regarding the configuration of the Weapon Systems (VLS for Aster 15 or 30) and Sensor Systems (SeaFire Radar with fixed panels or rotating), DGA is still considering a range of options, and nothing is yet “set in stone”. The design requirements do call for sufficient power margins to accommodate Directed Energy Weapons (DEWs).
Naval Group Works on Lithium-Ion Batteries for Submarines
At Euronaval 2022, in one of the full immersion dark rooms on the Naval Group stand, the company presented its new Lithium-Ion Battery for Submarines. Submarine operating Nations are facing two significant challenges: range and therefore autonomy, and discretion. Propulsion plays a significant role in this context, but existing technologies have a number of limitations, including the production of hydrogen-like Lead-Acid Batteries (LAB), which presents a significant safety risk. Lithium-Ion Batteries (LIB) hold great promises on a number of aspects. They provide greater energy than LABs, therefore giving Submarines greater submerged autonomy, while reducing indiscretion rate. They are also far more efficient in relation to charging. Where in order to reach 100% charge for LAB, the charging needs to happen onshore (the final charging phase releases hydrogen), LIB does not present the same risk. In fact, LIB Batteries reach 98% charge by Phase Two, therefore making it possible to charge them while at sea. Finally, because the amount of power they produce is the same, regardless of the battery’s state of charge, they offer more Tactical Mobility. Recognising LIB’ significant potential, Naval Group launched preliminary studies on the topic in 2006. The company subsequently concluded the System Design Phase, which included the selection of the Battery Supplier.
When designing the LIB for integration onto a Submarine, Naval Group had to take a number of factors into account. First and foremost, from a safety point of view, it had to ensure the battery’s chemical intrinsic stability and perform safety analyses on physical, electrical and thermal safety barriers. Second, from a design standpoint Naval Group had to consider how to use industrial cells and how to organise the architecture of the batteries. In fact, while the risk of hydrogen is eliminated with LIB, the risk of fire remains. As such, Naval Group has applied a layered, Russian dolls approach: a string design, which includes mechanical barriers, encases packs that contain modules that contain the Cells.
The company has already been thinking about how to implement the technology on Submarines. This includes considering the Submarine Electrical Network’s Architecture and Charging Systems, which will have to be different from those designed for LABs. Ventilation and Cooling will also need to be taken into consideration. Finally, Naval Group highlighted the fact that Future Submarine Designs will have to include room for evolutions as well.
First MBDA Exocet MM40 Block 3C Missiles to be Delivered
MBDA will reportedly start deliveries of the first MM40 Block 3C Anti-Ship Missiles to the French Navy (Marine Nationale) in December 2022, according to the latest official French Defence Budget documentations. The 2023 Defence Budget request document, which was published earlier, mentions that the Exocet MM40 Block 3C Missiles will be delivered in December 2022. These missiles were initially set to be delivered in 2021. The latest budget document shows that only 4 missiles will be delivered this year, with an additional 31 MM40 Block 3C Missiles set to be delivered in 2023. The total number of missiles on order is 55.
In addition, the French Ministry of Armed Forces ordered 45 MM40 Block 3C Kits, the first ones of which (four in total) are set to be delivered in September next year. These kits will be reportedly used to turn the MM40 Block 3 Missiles into the latest Block 3C Variant. According to the budget document, “the EXOCET Operation makes it possible to retain the Anti-Ship Capabilities provided by the EXOCET Missile System, available in Air-Launched (AM39), Surface-Launched (MM40) and Submarine-Launched (SM39) Variants. The operation maintains or even improves its robustness in the face of new threats as well as its implementation from new platforms.”
The document also mentions regarding the Future FCASW Missile: “The FCASW operation ensures the preservation of the Navy’s Anti-Ship Capability post 2030 by improving the survivability performance of the existing capability. The ramp-up phase carried out jointly with the United Kingdom should make it possible to choose the option to meet the operational need prior to the launch in production”.
Compared to the existing Block 3, the “Block 3C” Variant brings to the Exocet a new Digital RF Seeker by Thales. The “C” stands for Coherent. The most important benefit of Coherent Radar Processing is the ability to differentiate relatively small differences in velocity (which correspond to small differences in phase). This Coherent Target Processing Technology offers Doppler Resolution/estimation and provides less interference and signal/noise benefits relative to non-Coherent Processing.
Basically, the new MM40 Block 3C will be more resistant to the latest Jamming Systems and it will even be able to recognize Surface Vessels, thanks to the use of advanced wave forms. This means that the new Seeker will potentially be able to recognize a targeted ship within a group of ships and impact specific areas of that target. This is already achieved with modern Anti-Ship Missiles such as the LRASM and NSM, but both of these use Infra-red (IR) Seekers.
While the Block 3 Upgrade of the Exocet brought a Longer Range (200 Km) thanks to a Turbojet Engine and the ability to strike Coastal targets, thanks to GPS Navigation, it reportedly still uses the same RF Seeker as the Block 2 Variant.
Similar Upgrades plans on the AM39 Air-to-Surface Variant have not been announced yet. However, the SM39 Submarine-Launched Variant could receive a Seeker Upgrade. These two missiles have already received a Digitization Upgrade of their systems bringing them to the AM39 Block2 Mod2 Standard for the Rafale F3 and to the SM39 Block2 Mod2 Standard for the Suffren-Class Submarines (Barracuda SSN programme). The Coherent Seeker Upgrade could bring the later missile to the SM39 Block 3C Standard.
Housed in a water-tight, highly resistant, propelled and guided Underwater Vehicle, the Aerial Missile is ejected as soon as it breaks the Surface, to ensure a very low culmination altitude. The French Navy is set to have a very capable Anti-Ship Missile until its replacement, the FCASW, comes along in the 2030s.
Exocet MM40 Block 3 Basic Specifications: Weight: 780 kg; Length: less than 6 m; Speed: High Subsonic; Range: 200 km class effective operational range; Missions: Anti-Ship as well as Littoral Operations and Coastal Land Attack Capability.
Besides the MBDA display of the Exocet MM40 Block 3C Variant, MBDA held press briefings on its Naval products range, including presenting MBDA’s ITR (Installation de Tir Reconfigurable) MMFU: Multi-Mission Firing Unit. The ITR is a MBDA’s new standard of a Cyber-secured Firing Unit capable of operating all MBDA’s Weapon Systems, bringing maximum uniformity to the system, using always the same configuration. MBDA is closely associated with Exocet, probably one of the world’s most famous Anti-Ship Missile Systems. However, this is only one of a number of ship, fixed and rotary-wing aircraft launched Anti-Ship Missiles that MBDA supplies to the modern Navy. MBDA is also associated with the most advanced of Naval Air Defence Systems, capable of defending against multiple attacks by aircraft and incoming Anti-Ship Missiles.
Safran Launches VIGY 4 Optronic System for Surface Ships
Drawing on feedback from Users of its many products in remote theaters of operations, Safran Electronics & Defense is launching VIGY 4, a New Optronic Sight for Surface Ships, to meet the needs and expectations of Naval customers. This Sight is the latest addition to Safran’s Family of Naval Optronic Systems, which also includes the VIGY HD and PASEO XLR. VIGY 4 features advanced Observation and Fire Control Capabilities to meet the requirements of Medium-Displacement Ships such as Offshore Patrol Vessels and Corvettes, while VIGY HD is more suited to Vessels such as Coastal Patrol Boats and PASEO XLR to first-class vessels range.
VIGY 4 is a Compact Gyrostabilized Multi-Sensor Observation System with a SWIR (Shortwave Infrared) Channel, which can see through mist and fog. The system can be coupled with a Sector Surveillance Module to create a simple and effective Surveillance System. It is also designed to control Light- and Medium-Caliber Weapons.
Safran Electronics & Defense is a long-standing player in the Naval Sector, with internationally recognised expertise in Optronics, Electronic Warfare and Inertial Navigation. The company currently equips more than 1,000 Ships - merchant vessels, Naval Surface Ships and Submarines - and 50 Navies worldwide with Sensors, Optronic Systems and Inertial Systems designed and manufactured in France.
Safran is an International High-Technology Group operating in the Aviation (Propulsion, Equipment & Interiors), Defence & Space markets. Its core purpose is to contribute to a safer, more sustainable world, where Air Transport is more environmentally friendly, comfortable & accessible. Safran has a global presence, with 76,800 employees, sales of 15.3 Billion Euros in 2021, and holds, alone or in partnership, world or European leadership positions in its core markets. Safran Electronics & Defense is an international company with 10,000 employees, built on proven expertise in technologies that underpin sovereignty. By combining human and Artificial Intelligence, the company develops the products and services that empower Aerospace and Defence players to observe, decide and guide. Safran Electronics & Defense also supports fellow Safran companies by sharing its state-of-the-art Electronics skills and expertise.
Safran’s NGDS
Decoy Launcher Unveiled
Safran Electronics and Defense unveiled a new Variant of its NGDS (New Generation Dagaie System) Trainable Decoy Launcher as it looks to broaden the market for the system. Known as NGDS Configuration D, the modified launcher has been engineered for compatibility with NATO Standard 130 mm Countermeasure Rounds. All previous NGDS Launchers have been configured to fire Decoy Rockets supplied by Lacroix Defense.
NGDS uses a Stabilized Two-Axis Launcher able to train very rapidly in both azimuth and elevation in order to achieve placement of the Decoy with high accuracy. Safran describes the system as “a versatile and highly capable platform suitable to fire a wide variety of Anti-Missile/Anti-Torpedo Ammunition, of both the Mortar and Rocket types, whether Chaff, Flares, Obscurants, Corner Reflectors, Anti-Torpedo, Passive or Active, of various Calibers up to 150 mm.
Nexter and Thales Unveil New Design of RAPIDFire Turret
The temporary consortium formed by Nexter and Thales exhibited the RAPIDFire System Turret in its final form on the Nexter stand at Euronaval. This Remotely Operated Naval and Land Artillery System provides Platforms with a Close-In Self-Defence Capability against Air and Surface threats. One of the first systems produced will be installed on French Navy Fleet Replenishment Tanker Jacques Chevallier in early 2023 ahead of the at-sea qualification phase.
A New Close-In Protection System: Designed to protect platforms from low-level air threats, including Drones, RAPIDFire is one of the only Air Defence Systems that can autonomously and automatically acquire, identify and destroy a threat using Target Designation Data provided by a Combat Management System. With a ready rack of 140 rounds of Ammunition, corresponding to about 30 Interceptions, the system offers effective firepower against Drones and Swarms of Drones, avoiding attrition of Surface-to-Air Missiles in the event of a saturation attack.
Thanks to automatic real-time selection of different types of ammunition, RAPIDFire is the only system capable of defeating all types of threats, including personal watercraft, free-floating Mines, Ships, Loitering Munitions, Unmanned Aerial Systems, Fighter Jets, Attack Helicopters and Missiles at ranges of up to 4,000 metres.
RAPIDFire is extremely accurate and can defeat threats with no risk of collateral damage thanks to the coupling between the Fire Control System and the Turret, and ultimately through the use of Anti Aerial Airburst (A3B) Munitions. A3B Rounds are time-fuzed for greater effectiveness against all types of targets and cannot be Jammed, Decoyed or triggered by Clutter.
RAPIDFire is built around the 40 mm CTA Gun Suite and Ammunition and has already been adopted by the Armed Forces of France, the United Kingdom and Belgium. Compact, Modern Architecture accommodating the 40 mm CTA Gun, Ammunition and Sighting System to autonomously ensure high interception accuracy, while retaining a non-penetrating Turret Design. 40 mm CTA Gun compatible with the full range of 40 mm Telescoped Munitions from CTAI, including the future Anti Aerial Airburst (A3B) Round against Airborne targets.
High-Precision Optronic Fire Control System from Thales, with a Multi_Spectral Sight and high-rate Laser Rangefinder built into the turret. Multi-target capability with fast-into-action time and automatic selection of different types of ammunition. RAPIDFire can be readily adapted for Land-based Platforms such as the CAESAR MkII Truck Chassis.
Thanks to its intuitive user interface and on-the-move firing capability, this system can be seamlessly integrated into a fixed or Mobile Air Defence System to protect Combat Units on the ground as well as Military Bases, Logistics Convoys, Sensitive Sites and high-value assets.
Nexter NARWHAL with MBDA AKERON MP
Nexter's flagship product at Euronaval was the RAPIDFire Turret, whose new design was presented on 1:1 scale. This concentrate of innovations will become a reference in the field of Medium-Calibre Naval Turrets, adapted to low-layer Ground-to-Air Defence, and in particular to Anti-Drone Warfare.
Nexter also presented the NARWHAL 20mm Remote Controlled Turret reinforced by the MBDA AKERON MP Missile Launch Pod. The integration of this innovative solution demonstrates the modularity of its systems. In addition, thanks to its experience in Land and Naval Turrets, Nexter now offers Naval Versions of its Remotely Operated Land Turrets, including the ARX 25, which is equipped with the VBCI's 25mm Gun.
European leader in Naval Ammunition: Supplier to 60 Armies worldwide with a catalogue of more than 250 references, Nexter Arrowtech presented its 20 to 127mm Ammunition range for Naval Turrets at Euronaval. As Europe's leading Naval Munitions manufacturer, Nexter Arrowtech demonstrated its ability to develop game changing ammunition for high-intensity conflicts.
For instance, a fuse for 40mm L70 Ammunition with real-time inductive programming was displayed on the stand. This new technology considerably increases the operational capabilities of existing weapons, particularly in the Anti-Aircraft and Anti-Drone fields.
Rafael Naval Systems at Euronaval
Rafael Advanced Defense Systems exhibited at Euronaval. This was the first time RAFAEL’s C-DOME Naval Air Defence System and C-GEM Active Decoy were showcased after having become operational following their integration on the Israeli Navy’s Sa’ar 6 Corvette earlier this year. These systems represent the pinnacle of modern-day Naval Defence with unmatched levels of combat-proven success and exposure.
Systems presented also included RAFAEL’s SEA BREAKER 5th Generation Autonomous PGM, Naval SPIKE NLOS Multi-Purpose Missiles, Typhoon Mk30-C Remote Controlled Weapon Station, and more. Together these systems provide a full Naval Defence Suite for the modern battlefield - all provided by RAFAEL.
RAFAEL’s Naval Systems are backed by over 70 years of experience in the Defence Technology space, providing Battlespace Superiority against modern and future threats. Additionally, RAFAEL’s cutting-edge technology is already used throughout Europe and around the globe, with systems like the SPIKE in use in over 39 countries worldwide, including 19 NATO countries.
Leonardo Launches its New DSS-IRST System at Euronaval
At Euronaval, Leonardo launched its new Electro-Optical System that protects Naval Assets from multiple threats. The new system is called DSS-IRST (Distributed Static Staring-InfraRed Search and Tracking System), a Next-Generation Technology developed by the company to provide larger Naval Units, such as the Italian Navy's new LHD “Trieste” and Pattugliatori Polivalenti d’Altrura (PPA), with state-of-the-art capabilities and performance for dealing with multiple, long and short-range Surface, Missile and Airborne threats along Coastal Areas (Littoral) and on the open sea (Blue Water).
As well as fulfilling the requirements of a traditional IRST System, the modular architecture of Leonardo's new product allows for true 360° coverage through the positioning of four mechanically stabilised, static (non-rotating) Search Head Units (SHUs). Lightweight and Compact, these SHUs deliver high-resolution performance, together with an azimuthal range of 90° each. The New-Generation IRST is also equipped with three additional Electro-Optical (EO), Directional Head Units (DHUs) for the confirmation of acquired traces – an element that enables the system to minimise the False Alarm Rate, identify targets and, assisted by the SHUs, also provide active and passive measurement of their distance.
Leonardo’s complete solutions for Naval Domain included Naval Command & Control Systems, Weapon Systems, Sensors, Underwater Systems, Optronic, Maritime Communication Systems, Aircraft, Helicopters, Unmanned Systems and Space Communication. With its technologies Leonardo is able to satisfy all the mission requirements for any type of ship, class and tonnage.
Boasting one of the world’s most comprehensive Radar portfolios that meets the most stringent requirements regarding Navigation, Surveillance, Detection and Air, Surface and Missile Defence, Leonardo presented the KRONOS Family of Radars at Euronaval. This included the Naval Version of the KRONOS Power Shield fully digital AESA Warning Sensor, designed to defend Surface Units from Ballistic Missiles. The L-band Sensor, with advanced ATBM Capabilities, has a discovery range of up to 1,500 kms. The high-performance OSPREY 30 Electronic Scanning Radar for Maritime Surveillance, already chosen by several international customers, was also on show.
Alongside these solutions was the ULISSES (Ultra Light SonicS Enhanced System) Acoustic Sensor, developed by Leonardo to maximise effectiveness in Anti-Submarine Warfare (ASW) Operations on fixed- and rotary-wing Maritime Patrol Aircraft through minimised weight and size, and the Black Scorpion Lightweight Torpedo, designed to operate with maximum effectiveness and at minimum cost. In the field of Remotely Piloted Systems, Leonardo exhibited a full-scale mock-up of the AWHERO Helicopter equipped with the Gabbiano Ultra-Light Maritime Radar. AWHERO represents the state-of-the-art in 200 kg class Rotary UAS Systems, developed expressly for on-board operations, synergistically exploiting Leonardo’s experience and best technologies.
In the Munitions Sector, Leonardo - a world leader also in designing, developing and producing Small, Medium and Large-Calibre Naval Guns (12.7 to 127mm) had its Lionfish line of small-calibre systems, wholly designed and developed in-house. It also presented its DART (Driven Ammunition Reduced Time of Flight) Guided Munitions, effective against manoeuvrable missiles and small targets. Also important to mention is the Vulcano Family of Munitions in the 76 and 127 Versions, a product range – already chosen by several Navies worldwide - that ensures total Surface Dominance and effective Air Defence.
Schiebel Unveils New Camcopter S-300 VTOL UAS
As Rotary UAS competition grows in the Naval Domain, Schiebel decided to fill a gap in the Heavy-Lift-Capable Unmanned Air System (UAS) market with the Camcopter S-300, a larger version of the Camcopter S-100. The Austrian company Schiebel at Euronaval gave a sneak preview of the new Camcopter S-300. This VTOL UAV has an extended range and enhanced payload capacity compared to its little brother the Camcopter S-100, already in service in numerous Navies and Governmental Services. Schiebel developed this VTOL Rotary Wing Drone based on its experience and feedbacks gathered with S-100. The applications are basically the same ISR Operations.
Regarding the Technical Specifications, according to Schiebel, the UAS is 4.8 meters long, 1.9 meter high and 0.9 meter wide. It can fly at a maximum speed of 120 knots (cruising speed 55 knots). Size apart, the true difference compared to the S-100 System is the payload capacity. Indeed the S-300 is able to carry up to 340 Kg (fuel including) and its maximum take-off weight can reach 660 Kg. This is basically three times more compared the S-100 can carry. With a 50 Kg payload, the S-300 can fly up to 24 hours (4 hours with 250 Kg).
A Triple-Blade Folding Rotor System allows the storage of two S-300 UAVs and one Ground Control Station (GCS) in Standard 20-feet Container. The company highlights the few accessories needed to launch or recover such UAV and its capability to be stowed and maintained in confined spaces including in Ships’ Hangars. To make it easier for the customer, Schiebel has kept the same GCS as the one used by S-100, this way the Users can seamlessly transition to operate the S-300 with no additional operator training.
Exail: Powering Enhanced Autonomy for All AUVs
Naval engineers are hard at work to perfect the existing Autonomous Underwater Vehicles (AUV) technology, with the advent of Autonomous Submarines such as large displacement and extra-large Unmanned Underwater Vehicles (LDUUV and XLUUV) pushing the boundaries of what missions AUVs can fulfill even further. Whether it is for ISR Applications, Mine Countermeasures, Seabed Warfare or Deep-Sea Exploration, AUVs are becoming highly critical assets for Navies worldwide. With an increasing operational range and mission duration, operators of all type of AUVs have a critical need for high-performance and reliable Navigation Capabilities. This is where Exail’s (formerly iXblue) Inertial Navigations Systems come into play.
“AUVs are some of the most, if not the most Advanced Autonomous Platforms in the world. This is why the Navigation Solution is such an essential component. Because navigation brings such a critical capability, we understand the importance of our position in the market. Exail is not just a supplier of Inertial Navigation Systems, we believe that we can actually bring more robust autonomy to Subsea Autonomous Platforms including growing importance in providing the positioning solution with our Gaps Acoustic Positioning System,” said Jean-Marc Binois, Commercial Director at Exail.
Exail has a reputation of excellence when it comes to Naval and Maritime products. The company is recognized worldwide throughout the industry for its pioneering work on the development of Fiber-Optic Gyroscope (FOG) technology that has revolutionized Inertial Navigation Systems (INS). By truly understanding all specific aspects of the AUV market and its challenges, Exail was able to develop INS specifically designed to offer a scalable and highly accurate, and reliable Navigation Solution that enhances AUVs Autonomy: the Phins Compact Series. Genuine strap-down solid-state systems, Exail’s INS are free of moving parts and offer quiet and Stealth Autonomous Navigation and does not interfere with Sonars and other payloads acoustic noise. They also provide increased autonomy to Subsea Platforms thanks to their very low-power consumption.
Equipping over 80% of Subsea Platforms worldwide, the Phins Compact Series has been chosen by major AUVs manufacturers and integrators to provide reliable Autonomous Subsea Navigation. Comprising the Phins C3, C5 and C7, the Series offers a fully scalable solution that allows AUVs industry players to choose the Inertial Navigation System the most suited to their needs, whatever the platform’s size and mission type. Available in OEM Versions, the Phins C3, C5 and C7 share identical architectures and interfaces and incorporate the same algorithms and software, enabling customers to re-use the control system on any other type of AUV via modern interfaces such as Ethernet, reducing initial integration costs. Benefiting from an MTBF (Mean Time Between Failures) of over 100,000 hours, without any need for preventive maintenance, the Phins Compact Series guarantees the highest level of reliability and robustness and is now considered as the standard navigation solution on which AUVs can rely to be fully autonomous.
“Exail’s success in the AUVs market relies on many factors. One is, of course, our unrivaled FOG technology. But another of our strong suits is our advanced algorithms. Everything is about data nowadays, and data is key to highly reliable navigation. We can think of an AUV as being a mix of a lot of very good Sensors, including DVL, GPS, USBL, and LBL to only name a few. The challenging part to make the platform fully autonomous, is to merge all those data to provide a reliable navigation capability,” states Jean-Marc Binois. “Thanks to our advanced algorithms and Unscented Kalman Filter, our Inertial Navigation Systems have now become the Prime Sensor Fusion Engine, from Navigation, Position, and timing standpoint. Therefore, we are able to bring more robust autonomy to those Unmanned Platforms. Overall, we have the best technology available for the navigation of AUVs today and this translates into the sheer number of Exail Systems that are now roaming the oceans in full autonomy.”
BAE Systems Launches ‘Herne’ XLAUV Concept Demonstrator
BAE Systems has launched its concept demonstrator for Extra-Large Autonomous Underwater Vehicle (XLAUV) Capability at Euronaval 2022. The Herne XLAUV Concept is built around a broad set of capabilities BAE Systems is developing and has already demonstrated in other products. “We’ve looked at the Underwater Battlespace and the opportunities and emerging threats … and saw a gap around this size of platform, so this is a concept demonstrator to showcase the abilities and innovation that BAE Systems has,”said Andrew Carr, Head of Engineering and Technology for Underwater Domain at BAE Systems. Carr highlighted BAE Systems’ work in autonomy, electric propulsion technologies, sensor fits, and torpedo systems. “So, it’s a ‘wrap-around’ to build and integrate a design for what we think will meet a global marketplace.”
XLAUV’s overall concept of operations includes worldwide deployment, transportability, deployment onboard a ‘host’ platform, long endurance, and capacity to operate at depths out to the edge of the continental shelf. Primary operational tasks focus on Surveillance, Reconnaissance, and Tracking Missions, particularly in circumstances where an uncrewed vehicle may be preferred over a crewed vessel. XLAUV is designed “more around Covert Ops, being Stealthy, and being able to stay on station for a good amount of time,” said Carr. He noted, XLAUV might offer a smaller, more covert presence compared to a Submarine, for example. XLAUVs can be more disparate, working in a networked way, with multiple platforms.