TKMS to deliver mine hunting sonars for German Navy’s minehunters

October 24, 2025, by Fatima Bahtić

TKMS and the Federal Office of Bundeswehr Equipment, Information Technology and In-Service Support (BAAINBw) have signed a contract for the delivery of HMS-12M mine hunting sonars for the MJ332-class mine hunting boats.

The contract for the HMS-12M sonars, used for a comprehensive search for sea mines in the water column and on the seabed, was signed in Koblenz.

According to TKMS, by placing the order for the main sensor at an early stage, the sonars can be integrated into the mine countermeasure vessels with low risk and on schedule during the planned shipyard layovers. This ensures the continued operational readiness of the vessels, it was added.

“Our largest HMS-12M order to date is an important contract for TKMS and its segment ATLAS ELEKTRONIK. The modern sensor will significantly increase the navy’s detection and classification probability. We are delighted that our customers have confidence in our technology and our support throughout the entire service life,” said Michael Ozegowski, Executive Vice President of TKMS’ segment ATLAS ELEKTRONIK.

For mine countermeasures, advanced sensor technology is essential to ensure safety and mission success. The HMS-12M sonar is a modern, hull-mounted tri-frequency sonar that is already being used by navies in Northern Europe, the Mediterranean, and the Arab world.

Equipped with multiple frequencies for precise detection and classification, this system identifies bottom mines, anchor mines, and semi-buried threats. Its stabilized antenna enables continuous tracking of detected objects even under demanding conditions up to sea state 5.

The sonar is used for a comprehensive search for sea mines in the water column and on the seabed, to contribute to the safety of the world’s oceans.

Last month, TKMS joined forces with TKMS with Indian firm VEM Technologies to work on submarine weapons technologies. The partners will work on the development, production, integration, testing and modernization of heavyweight torpedoes. Supported by TKMS and its segment Atlas Elektronik, VEM Technologies will take over the integration and testing of the torpedoes in India.