UK MOD Awards TKMS ATLAS Next Generation Torpedo Defence
TKMS ATLAS UK has won a UK Ministry of Defence contract to develop the Next Generation Countermeasure system for Royal Navy submarines, partnering with
The UK Ministry of Defence has awarded TKMS ATLAS UK a contract to develop and supply a new torpedo defence system for Royal Navy submarines. The Next Generation Countermeasure programme is a key part of the navy's Underwater Defensive Aids Suite.
Designed for both current and future submarine platforms, the NGCM system will address evolving underwater threats. The programme will use a spiral development approach to ensure the technology remains adaptable and operationally relevant over the long term. The contract value was not disclosed.
Expertise and Partnership
TKMS ATLAS UK will draw on its expertise in hydro-acoustics, sonar systems, and underwater communications to deliver the programme. The company will partner with Babcock International Group, which will provide countermeasure launcher technology and handle platform integration. Babcock has extensive experience supporting the UK submarine fleet.
Dr Antoni Mazur, Managing Director at TKMS ATLAS UK, said the award reflected the company's role as "the UK’s trusted provider of torpedo countermeasure research and development."
Programme Goals and Statements
The engineered solution aims to enhance submarine availability while allowing for future upgrades. Officials state it represents a significant advance in underwater survivability for the fleet.
Chris Bamforth, Head of Submarine Combat Systems in the MOD, congratulated TKMS ATLAS UK and said he looked forward to working with them to deliver the "essential capability."
Phil Craig, Managing Director of Marine Programmes at Babcock, noted the partnership built on more than three years of joint research before the contract award. He said delivering a world-class solution to protect national interests was a key driver.
Future Development and Impact
The award reinforces TKMS ATLAS UK's commitment to the Royal Navy and UK sovereign defence capability. The company stated the programme would also contribute to security in the North Atlantic.
Future work will focus on delivery, integration, and progressive enhancements to the system. This is intended to ensure the Royal Navy can counter emerging threats throughout the service life of its submarines. The programme is also seen as creating opportunities for future growth and export.
TKMS ATLAS UK is a subsidiary of the German company TKMS.
