Dutch MoD selects OPTICS11 for containerized towed array sonar system

Published Jul 24, 12:32 PM UTC

The Dutch Ministry of Defence has contracted OPTICS11 to develop and deliver containerized towed array systems under the ASWINABO (Anti-Submarine Warfare In A Box) program. The systems, based on OPTICS11's OptiArray passive fiber optic hydrophone technology, are designed for deployment from a range of crewed and uncrewed maritime platforms, including surface ships and unmanned surface vessels. This capability allows navies to retrofit existing vessels with advanced sonar sensing quickly and cost-effectively, addressing the growing threat to subsea infrastructure from espionage, sabotage, and hybrid attacks. The contract includes establishing production and integration capabilities for future large-scale deployment. The Royal Netherlands Navy views this as a game-changer for maritime security and undersea infrastructure protection, enabling broader underwater surveillance without the need for specialized naval platforms.