National Defence renews R&D contract for airborne sonar system

Richmond, BC September 9, 2003 MacDonald, Dettwiler and Associates says the Department of National Defence has renewed a long-term contract with the company to research and develop an experimental airborne sonar system for Canada’s CP 140 patrol aircraft.

The renewal is worth up to C$1.9 million over the next three years, according to the company.

With the end of the Cold War, the threat that Canada’s fleet of maritime patrol aircraft was designed to monitor has moved from the deep ocean to coastal waters. New airborne sonar techniques are required in this shallow environment. MDA is using the R&D skills in its information systems group to develop a “flying test bed” that will then be incorporated into Canada’s CP 140 patrol fleet.

It says this is a renewal of a standing offer agreement provided by Public Works and Government Services Canada on behalf of Defense Research and Development Canada (Atlantic).