HENSOLDT UK will supply radar sensor suites consisting of Kelvin Hughes Mk11 S and X Band SharpEye radar systems to the South African Navy (SAN) for three Multi Mission Inshore Patrol Vessels (MMIPVs) built by Damen Shipyards Cape Town, South Africa. The radars will provide a navigation and surface surveillance capability.
Kelvin Hughes Mk11 SharpEye is a high-performance radar designed to meet detection challenges of navies and border agencies in any condition. SharpEye Mk11 is a coherent, pulse Doppler radar designed for navigation and situational awareness.
The SharpEye Mk11 radars are approved by the International Maritime Organization (IMO) and are installed in conjunction with an OSI integrated navigation bridge system.
The solid-state SharpEye transceivers are located upmast in the carbon composite turning unit housing and bring additional benefits such as ease of installation and high reliability. The use of a direct drive motor system rather than a traditional antenna rotator gearbox reduces maintenance costs.
Adrian Pilbeam, Head of Sales, Maritime Surveillance, said, “Hensoldt UK are pleased to supply the South African Navy with further SharpEye radars to assist in the demanding operational tasks.
“This continues the longstanding relationship for the supply of radar sensors to OSI Maritime Systems for integration into their bridge systems.”
The SharpEye Mk11 range will enable the SAN MMIPVs to safeguard the country’s coasts from such threats as piracy and illegal fishing.
