Thales and the Italian Navy are further consolidating their cooperation through logistic support contracts for the navy’s warships.
As disclosed, the company signed, through the Organization for Joint Armament Cooperation (OCCAR) and Orizzonte Sistemi Navali (OSN), a 4-year logistic support contract, covering the maintenance of the sonar suites and electronic warfare solutions installed on the frigates of the FREMM class units. The agreement is part of the broader Through Life Sustainment Management (TLSM2) support contract.
An additional contract was formalized by Thales as the lead company of a temporary grouping of companies (RTI) with Leonardo to provide 18-month operational support for the sonar systems on board the Gaeta-class minehunters, to enhance response effectiveness and timeliness.
Furthermore, the firm opened a modern service centre at the Taranto Arsenal, dedicated to the maintenance of sonars and equipment installed on the Italian Navy vessels.
This new facility will enable the Italian Navy to cut intervention times by half on Thales systems, thanks to the deployment of highly qualified local experts and technicians, the company noted. Moreover, on-the-job training will be provided at this facility to Navy personnel on the maintenance of all supported systems.
“We are extremely proud to work alongside the Italian Navy, helping to deliver faster and more efficient support services. We thank the Italian Navy for granting access to the seafront facility at Taranto Arsenal, where our Italian technical team operates,” said Donato Amoroso , Thales Italia CEO & Country Director .
This hub enables us to carry out all levels of maintenance, from straightforward component replacements to the most complex tasks. With this initiative, we underscore our strong commitment and the value of Italian know-how in service of Italian Defence .”