This innovative project brings together all of Spearfish's safety control into a single embedded system, the SEU. This will enable easier introduction of new performance upgrades to Spearfish, reduce through life cost, and maintain exceptional safety levels.
Altran will take the lead on the project's safety systems engineering, develop the safety-critical software using model-based technology and procure the hardware platform.
The Spearfish torpedo is a submarine-launched torpedo offering unsurpassed speed, intelligence and stealth to defeat the most sophisticated submarine and surface threats. It incorporates the latest computer technology in acoustic processing and tactical control. It is the world's most advanced submarine launched anti-submarine and anti-ship guided weapon.
Altran was chosen by BAE Systems due to its proven safety critical and embedded systems pedigree, systems capability, commitment to deliver and the skills and understanding of its staff.
The new SEU is a critical element of the programme and comprises electronic circuit boards, connectors and embedded software in a ruggedised unit. The SEU will interface with and utilise data from existing sensors, command and guidance links as well as navigation and propulsion systems. Integrating previously isolated safety components of the weapon into a single unit the new SEU will ensure safety and allow future upgrades to be made more cost effectively.
"Electronic systems are now central to effective defence and require a combination of engineering expertise and innovation if they are to be successfully deployed,"said Keith Williams, International Executive Director for the Embedded & Critical Systems Group Solution. "We look forward to providing our embedded safety critical software engineering skills in support of BAE Systems and the MoD on this vital programme."
Altran and BAE Systems are currently embarking upon the Assessment Phase, which culminates in a sea trial to show proof of concept.
