Ultra Electronics Receives $7 Million Contract For Degaussing Equipment for Halifax-class Frigates

Jun 29 2011 David Pugliese’s Defence Watch

The government has awarded a $7 million contract to Ultra Electronics Canada Defence Inc. of Dartmouth, N.S. as part of the Halifax-Class Modernization / Frigate Life Extension Project (HCM-FELEX).

Ultra Electronics will supply each frigate with an automated degaussing system, which minimizes or eliminates a ship's magnetic field, preventing the triggering of anti-ship mines, according to DND.

“The Degaussing Geomagnetic Map Control System (DGMCS) system is automatically controlled, accurate, and reliable, enabling Canadian Forces members to do their work at sea in greater safety. The contract is anticipated to support jobs for up to six and a half years in the Halifax Regional Municipality (HRM),” DND noted in a press release.

As noted earlier on Defence Watch, several weeks ago HMCS Calgary entered its work period at Victoria Shipyards, as the first of the five west coast frigates.

In September 2010, HMCS Halifax entered its work period at Halifax Shipyards, as the first of the seven east coast frigates.

The modernization of the frigates includes a new command and control system, new radar capability, a new electronic warfare system, and upgraded communications technologies and missiles. The frigates will also undergo a mid-life refit to ensure that they continue to operate at their most effective. The full program is expected to take approximately six-and-a-half years, as currently planned.