Thales has celebrated the order of its 100th CAPTAS variable immersion towed sonar system, cementing its position as a global leader in anti-submarine warfare (ASW) solutions. The milestone underscores the trust placed in the company’s technology by navies worldwide as they strengthen undersea defense capabilities.
CAPTAS: A Benchmark in Anti-Submarine Warfare
Developed in close collaboration with the British, French, and Italian navies more than 30 years ago, the CAPTAS (Combined Active-Passive Towed Array Sonar) family has become a reference solution for anti-submarine warfare (ASW). Today, 17 navies are operating or testing the system across 17 different platforms, from vessels under 1,000 tons to large frigates and destroyers.
The CAPTAS sonar provides long-range 360-degree detection and advanced tracking capabilities, even in challenging acoustic environments. Its flexibility allows for seamless integration across multiple classes of ships, ensuring navies maintain a tactical edge beneath the seas.
Global Adoption and NATO Standard
The CAPTAS family has been widely adopted by NATO and allied navies, reinforcing its role as a standard for modern maritime defense. By integrating artificial intelligence and multi-sensor fusion, Thales has enhanced the system’s ability to deliver a comprehensive underwater situational picture and support joint operations.
This adaptability has allowed CAPTAS to remain relevant for both traditional blue-water missions and operations in contested littoral zones, where submarine threats are evolving rapidly.
Focus on Innovation and Operational Feedback
Thales continues to refine the CAPTAS range through ongoing feedback from sailors and operational deployments. The company’s emphasis on continuous improvement ensures that the system remains reliable, mature, and at the forefront of ASW innovation.
“As a result of long-standing cooperation with more than 50 navies worldwide, our deep understanding of their needs makes the CAPTAS system an essential choice for current and future anti-submarine missions,” said Sébastien Guérémy, Vice-President in charge of underwater warfare activities at Thales.
Strengthening Naval Defense for the Future
With more than 100 systems now ordered, CAPTAS demonstrates the enduring demand for proven undersea detection technology. As submarine proliferation accelerates globally, navies are prioritizing ASW capabilities to protect critical sea lanes, safeguard territorial waters, and maintain strategic deterrence.
By reaching this milestone, Thales consolidates its leadership in sonar technologies and reinforces its commitment to equipping navies with advanced, interoperable solutions that can meet the demands of multi-domain operations.
