Indo Pacific International Maritime Exposition’s Post

A major milestone has been achieved for NUSHIP Hunter with the successful factory acceptance test of the towed body and towed array handling systems for its Sonar 2087 suite. Conducted at the Thales Defence Mission Systems facility in Brest, France, the testing confirmed the systems’ performance and readiness, with representatives from Thales France, Thales UK, Thales Australia and the Royal Australian Navy in attendance. Sonar 2087, the British‑developed variant of the Thales CAPTAS‑4 system, combines active and passive sonar arrays to detect, locate and classify submarines at ranges up to 60 kilometres. Offering 360‑degree situational awareness and real‑time torpedo alerts, it will significantly enhance the Royal Australian Navy’s anti‑submarine warfare capability. Integrated into the Hunter Class frigates, this advanced sonar forms part of a broader suite of sensors and weapons designed to deliver a potent undersea warfare capability. With delivery scheduled for early 2026, the systems will be integrated into the Hunter Class build program, marking a key step towards the frigate’s entry into service in the early 2030s. 📷 Australian Department of Defence