BAE Systems has secured a $36-million production order from Lockheed Martin to manufacture multifunction modular mast (MMM) units for the US Navy’s Virginia-class submarines.
The MMM is a radio-frequency receiving antenna capable of scanning, identifying, and mapping signals from enemy submarines before they surface.
It is housed within a “pressure-rated, corrosion-resistant” composite radome designed to endure underwater conditions while minimizing its visual and radar signature.
Its modular design also accommodates payload units that can integrate additional sensors for future operational needs.
Once fitted onto Virginia-class submarines, the MMM will work alongside Lockheed Martin’s AN/BLQ-10 electronic warfare suite, providing enhanced sensing capabilities to detect and track adversary communications while remaining submerged.
Production will be carried out at BAE’s facilities in New Hampshire, including Hudson, Merrimack, and Nashua.
