Thales Tests SonoFlash Sonobuoy From ATL 2 Maritime Patrol Aircraft

In response to the evolving underwater threat environment, Thales has developed the SonoFlash, a next-generation sonobuoy designed to enhance anti-submarine warfare (ASW) capabilities. Leveraging decades of expertise in sonar and acoustic sensor technology, Thales aims to offer navies a robust and innovative solution. The French Navy will be the first to operationalize the SonoFlash, deploying it via the modernized Atlantique 2 (ATL2) maritime patrol aircraft and the NH90 Caiman tactical transport helicopters. Deliveries are expected to begin in 2025.

What is SonoFlash?

SonoFlash is a cutting-edge A-size sonobuoy specifically developed to fulfill the French Navy's ASW requirements. This initiative also aims to re-establish a sovereign industrial capability in the design and manufacture of sonobuoys while fostering an ecosystem of small and medium enterprises, including TELERAD, SelhaGroup, and Realmeca, to support local production.

Dual Mode Operation

Unlike conventional sonobuoys, which are either active or passive, SonoFlash uniquely combines both modes. It integrates a high-powered transmitter for active sonar and a passive low-frequency directional receiver within a single buoy. This dual functionality enhances tactical flexibility, reduces the number of sonobuoys required in a given area, and facilitates multistatic operations, thereby offering significant operational advantages.

Development and Testing

The development of SonoFlash began with feasibility studies in 2016. By January 2021, Thales was awarded a contract by France's Direction générale de l’armement (DGA) for full development, qualification, and production. The qualification phase is scheduled to conclude by late 2024, with operational deployment planned for 2025.

Thales and DGA have conducted numerous tests and trials to ensure the sonobuoy's performance. Key tests included mechanical deployment trials in the Mediterranean in May 2022 and acoustic performance evaluations at the DGA range facility in the Alps. The latest milestone, announced on Thales' LinkedIn account, involved the successful launch and deployment of the SonoFlash from a French Navy ATL 2 MPA.

Specifications of SonoFlash

Here are the detailed specifications of the SonoFlash sonobuoy:

• Type: Active/Passive A-size sonobuoy
• Modes: Dual mode (Active and Passive)
• Transmitter: High-powered active transmitter
• Receiver: Passive low-frequency directional receiver
• Deployment Platforms: Modernized ATL2 maritime patrol aircraft, NH90 Caiman helicopters
• Operational Use: Anti-submarine warfare (ASW)
• Development Timeline:
• Feasibility studies: 2016
• Contract awarded: January 2021
• Qualification completion: Late 2024
• Operational deployment: 2025
• Manufacturing Partners: TELERAD, SelhaGroup, Realmeca

Market and Export Potential

Thales is actively promoting the SonoFlash in the global market. It has been showcased at international defense exhibitions such as Sea Air Space in the USA and DX Korea in South Korea, indicating significant export potential.

The SonoFlash sonobuoy represents a significant advancement in ASW technology, offering enhanced capabilities through its dual-mode operation and integration of advanced acoustic technologies. With its upcoming deployment by the French Navy, SonoFlash is set to become a critical asset in maritime defense, reflecting Thales' commitment to innovation and excellence in underwater warfare systems.