Denmark signs with TKMS Atlas Elektronik for ASW towed-array sonar

TKMS Atlas Elektronik's low-frequency active towed-array sonar. (Danish Ministry of Defence Acquisition and Logistics Organisation)

Denmark's Defence Acquisition and Logistics Organisation (DALO) has contracted TKMS Atlas Elektronik to supply low-frequency active towed-array sonar (ACTAS) systems for retrofit to the Royal Danish Navy's two Absalon-class frigates, HDMS Absalon and HDMS Esbern Snare.

Announcing the award on 5 September, DALO said the order represented a significant investment in “the navy's ability to carry out anti-submarine operations at great distances and in significant water depths”. TKMS Atlas Elektronik, which was selected as preferred supplier in early 2025 following a competition, has previously supplied the ASO 94 medium-frequency hull-mounted sonars fitted to the two Absalon-class ships and the three Iver Huitfeldt-class frigates.

The anti-submarine warfare (ASW) upgrade of the two Absalon-class frigates was first announced as part of Denmark's 2018-2023 Defence Agreement. According to DALO, the TKMS Atlas Elektronik TAS bid – based on a variant of the company's ACTAS low-frequency active variable depth sonar product – was preferred on technical, operational, and commercial grounds.

“This choice … ensures not only that the operational requirements are met, but also an efficient integration with existing systems, as the company already supplies sonar systems to the Danish frigates,” DALO said in a statement, adding, “The new system incorporates state-of-the-art technology that allows efficient communication between the ship's various sonar systems, improving the ability to respond quickly and effectively to potential threats below sea level.”

For more information, please see Ultra Maritime to supply sonars for Dutch-Belgian ASW frigates .