Ship Self Defence 2009

Naval forces have been working to meet the challenges posed by non traditional threats to ships and naval assets. The focus has been on the asymmetric threat, with a focus on ensuring developments in sensor and weapons systems deliver increased ability to detect and counter this threat.

However there has always been a need to maintain the balance of the fleet and sustain a blue water capability. Recent political changes have clearly highlighted this requirement and all navies have to respond. Now the safety of ships in all environments from littoral to blue water, from in port to being involved in international efforts is at stake.

International developments in on-board systems, deployable assets and construction are all progressing, but there still needs to be a balance between the cost of new technology and new vessel construction with upgrading existing ships and the application of COTS technology and equipment.