Home Europe HMS Portland first Royal Navy frigate to receive Type 2150 hull mounted...

HMS Portland first Royal Navy frigate to receive Type 2150 hull mounted sonar

HMS Portland Type 2150 hull mounted sonar
Photo: Ultra

Type 23 frigate HMS Portland became the first Royal Navy ship to be fitted with Ultra’s Type 2150 hull mounted sonar during the recent life-extension (LIFEX) upgrade.

The sonar has been designed by Ultra Electronics Command & Sonar Systems and will replace the legacy Type 2050 sonar, which has been in Royal Navy service since the 1990s.

The new sonar incorporates a user interface to improve operator effectiveness and usability.

According to Ultra, the digital control of the outboard array minimizes interference, reduces ships cabling, maximizes reliability and extends array maintenance intervals to at least five years.

The sonar will be fitted to eight of the Royal Navy Type 23 frigates. Ultra has also been awarded the contract to supply this sonar to the first three Royal Navy Type 26 frigates currently under construction.

HMS Portland exited the dry dock in February this year, for the final phase of the LIFEX. In addition to the new sonar, the frigate received the Sea Ceptor missile system, Artisan 3D radar on top of the main mast, new engines, and refurbished mess decks.