Press Release -- Curtiss-Wright’s Defense Solutions division has announced that its INDAL business unit is collaborating with GeoSpectrum Technologies to develop a new compact and lightweight sonar system designed for the smaller surface ships and Unmanned Surface Vehicle (USV) markets.
The TRAPS (Towed Reelable Active Passive Sonar) system will deliver a unique, high-performance Antisubmarine Warfare (ASW) solution to the undersea warfare marketplace. Based on its reduced size and weight, TRAPS will be the first towed active/passive sonar system to enable smaller navies, such as those operating frigates, corvettes, coastal patrol vessels, and ships of opportunity, to perform effective ASW operations. Unlike towed sonar systems that require heavy and complex launch and recovery equipment, TRAPS is the first reelable towed system that features a vertical active source combined with a high performance passive towed array, all handled “in-line” on a lightweight and easy to use winch system.
"Curtiss-Wright is excited to be working with GeoSpectrum Technologies to develop this innovative new high performance ASW system,” said Lynn Bamford, Senior Vice President and General Manager, Defense Solutions division. “The unprecedented weight and size reduction provided by the TRAPS system demonstrates Curtiss-Wright’s leadership in providing innovative shipboard handling solutions.”
The TRAPS System
The TRAPS system is for use in a variety of applications, including submarine detection for smaller surface combatants in a containerized package (mission configurable) that can be deployed on both existing vessels and new builds. It can be deployed as a permanent installed ASW system for new ship construction (especially smaller combatants) or as a permanent installed ASW system retrofit on existing ships with minimal impact and cost.