Dutch MoD selects OPTICS11 for containerized towed array ASW system

Published Jul 24, 12:32 PM UTC

The Dutch Ministry of Defence has contracted OPTICS11, a leader in passive fiber optic acoustic subsea sensing, to develop and deliver operational containerized towed array systems under the ASWINABO (Anti-Submarine Warfare In A Box) program. These systems, based on OPTICS11's OptiArray product line, are designed for deployment from a range of crewed and uncrewed maritime platforms, enabling rapid, cost-effective anti-submarine sensing. Unlike conventional electrical towed arrays, OptiArray is passive, acoustically silent, and captures richer acoustic information for earlier detection and accurate classification. The contract aims to strengthen Royal Netherlands Navy readiness and self-sufficiency, allowing surface ships, unmanned vessels, and other platforms to gain advanced underwater surveillance capability. The project also includes establishing production and integration infrastructure for future large-scale deployment, addressing evolving threats to subsea infrastructure from espionage, sabotage, and hybrid attacks.