Linköping, Sweden, April 23, 2018, Author: Galina Zdravkova (Bm), Photo: Saab

Under a contract, awarded by Luerssen Australia, Saab will supply the Situational Awareness System (SAS) for the new offshore patrol vessels (OPV) of the Royal Australian Navy (RAN). This was announced by Saab on April 20, reported Shephard Media.

It is foreseen twelve new boats to be delivered under the 12-year OPV Program of the Royal Australian Navy.

The SAS is based on the Saab Australia’s 9LV Combat Management System (9LV CMS) of Saab, which is the command and control centre of many advanced surface vessels and submarines. Except that system, Saab’s EOS 500 (electro-optical fire control director) will be also integrated in the offshore patrol vessels.

Some of the components needed for the SAS, like command consoles and computer cabinets, will be manufactured by local Australian companies, for the purposes of which additional contracts will be concluded.

“Saab Australia is pleased to receive this order from Luerssen Australia. This is also an important step towards system commonality for the navy, with 9LV installed, or contracted for delivery, across four classes of ship. The development work being undertaken by Saab in Australia will also support export opportunities and position us well for future maritime projects,” said the Managing Director for Saab Australia, Andy Keough.