The US Navy has awarded L3Harris Technologies a $139-million contract to continue supplying low-profile imaging masts (LPM) for Virginia- and Columbia-class nuclear submarines.
L3Harris will provide engineering support for its Type 20 and Type 24 LPM systems, serving as the prime contractor and design agent from design and testing through fleet delivery.
The LPMs replace traditional hull-penetrating periscopes with telescoping masts equipped with high-definition visible and infrared imaging. The company said the systems provide 360-degree visibility and enhanced optical and sensor capabilities.
Unlike traditional periscopes, LPMs use cameras mounted on a mast above the submarine to send imagery to displays inside the boat. Virginia-class submarines already use photonics masts, allowing the control room to sit lower in the hull while giving crews access to visible and infrared imagery.
“The LPM represents a critical leap forward in submarine stealth and situational awareness, ensuring our fleet maintains superiority beneath the waves for decades to come,” L3Harris Maritime, Space & Mission Systems president Nino DiCosmo said.
US Virginia, Columbia Submarines
Virginia-class submarines are nuclear-powered attack boats designed for missions including anti-submarine warfare, strike operations, special operations support, and intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance. Columbia-class submarines are being built to replace the Ohio class as the sea-based leg of the US nuclear triad.
The latest award covers systems for both submarines as the navy continues to modernize its undersea fleet.
The Virginia is receiving a major increase in payload capacity through the Virginia Payload Module (VPM). The module adds four large-diameter payload tubes to Block V submarines, with each tube able to carry seven Tomahawk cruise missiles. That gives VPM-equipped boats space for 28 additional Tomahawks.
The Columbia has a different mission. Each submarine will carry the Trident II D5LE strategic weapon system and is designed with a life-of-ship nuclear reactor core, eliminating the need for midlife refueling. The navy plans to build at least 12 Columbia-class submarines.
