(DCNS).

(DCNS).

In cooperation with the European missile house MBDA, the French shipbuilder DCNS has introduced an air defence capability on its Andrasta submarine. This solution was developed to protect submarines against airborne threats evolving at low and medium levels.

Two different solutions are being proposed by DCNS, a mast-mounted anti-aircraft self-defence system designed for incorporation into the fin of a submarine the MBDA Mistral very-short range surface-to-air missiles launched from a retractable mast supporting a container, and as well as a self-defence system with an undersea vehicle containing a MBDA VL MICA medium-range missile deployed from a torpedo tube.

These weapon systems are integrated within the submarine´s SUBTICS (SUBmarine Tactical Integrated Combat System) combat management system.

Andrasta has a displacement of 900 tonnes, a length overall of about 50 meters, diving depth of 200 meters, a submerged endurance of up to 4 days, a range of 4000 nm, a top submerged speed of 15 knots and is manned by a crew of 21.

It also unveiled the SMX 26, a small submarine designed for operation in very shallow waters, in littoral zones not usually accessible for diesel electric and air independent propulsion powered submarines.

SMX 26 can remain on the sea bed for long periods, continuously monitoring its environment, before attacking its target with the appropriate assets. It can take rapid and effective action, including the deployment of six special forces divers at depth or at the surface for catching targets. It also has two mast-mounted weapon systems comprising a 20mm cannon for policing capability and missile launch container for anti-aircraft self-defence. Its main offensive armament comprises two heavyweight torpedoes and eight lightweight torpedoes with heavy warheads.

The submarine has minimum operating depth of 12 meters and a range of 4000 nm at a speed of 8 knots.

(DCNS).