Celsius receives order from FMV for modernization of submarines
Two submarines to be modernized and equipped with Stirling Kockums has received an order from the Swedish Defence Material Administration (FMV) for modernization of two Västergötland-class submarines. The order is worth about SEK 600 M. The order includes installation of the air-independent Stirling propulsion system, which enables a submarine to remain submerged for much longer periods than would otherwise be possible. The installation of this system will significantly increase the operational and tactical capability of the two submarines. The Stirling system, which has attracted considerable international attention, has been developed at Kockums over a period of several years. It has also been sold to export customers, including Japan. The system to be installed at the two submarines is the latest version, known as the Stirling MK 3. The order means that the swedish Navy will in the future be able to deploy five submarines equipped with the air-independent Stirling system. The upgrade is also designed to increase the submarines´ operational efficiency in warmer waters, thereby improving the Swedish Navy´s capability to participate in peace-keeping international missions. For more details, please contact Kjell Göthe, Vice president/Corporate Communications, Kockums, on +46 (0)40 - 34 82 88 or via mobile phone on +46 (0)70 - 583 95 44. Kockums and Germany´s HDW (Howaldtswerke Deutsche Werft AG) have recently announced a merger of their operations. This creates a new company which is the global leader in conventional (non-nuclear) submarines and naval surface vessels. First, however, the deal must receive the formal approval of the European Commission. Celsius owns 25 per cent in the new Kockums-HDW. Celsius is an international advanced-technology and knowledge-based corporation which, in close interaction with its customers develops, manufactures and maintains advanced systems, products and services within three core areas: Defence, with a focus on electronics, IT and smart weapon systems; Aerotech Services, which comprises advanced services, consultancy and maintenance, primarily for defence-sector customers, and Aviation Services, which is focused on engine, component maintenance and asset management services for the commercial market. This comprehensive competence provides a platform for the development of new products and services with strong growth potential in both defence-related and commercial markets. Celsius has sales in excess of SEK 12 billion and some 9,500 employees. ------------------------------------------------------------ Please visit http://www.bit.se for further information The following files are available for download: http://www.bit.se/bitonline/1999/11/03/19991103BIT00080/bit0001.doc http://www.bit.se/bitonline/1999/11/03/19991103BIT00080/bit0002.pdf