Expertise in cutting-edge electronics for underwater minesweeping drones is a priority for the program.
HERNDON, Va.—Global satellite communications company ST Engineering iDirect said in a release that its Manufacturing Competence Center (MCC) was selected by Exail to deliver the electronics for the underwater drones of the joint Mine Counter Measure Program (MCM) of the Belgian and Dutch Navies.
Exail is a high-tech industrial company that specializes in cutting-edge robotics, maritime, and navigation technologies. ST Engineering iDirect is an experienced builder of custom electronics for high-tech industries such as government and defense, space, medical, and other high-end programs, including for the European Space Agency (ESA).
The replacement Mine Counter Measure program (rMCM) was awarded to Belgium Naval & Robotics, a Naval Group-Exail consortium initiated to provide Belgium and Dutch Navies with new mine warfare capabilities. These capabilities are based on a unique stand-off approach, including surface, underwater, and aerial drones, according to the release.
“We are delighted that Exail has chosen us to manufacture the electronics for its underwater drones, bound for use by the Belgium-Dutch Naval groups,” said Danny De Smet, sales and marketing at ST Engineering iDirect’s Manufacturing Competence Center, in the release. “This partnership recognizes MCC as a leading manufacturer of electronic high-reliability assemblies, and we look forward to showcasing the immense capabilities of our state-of-the-art facilities.”
“ST Engineering iDirect’s MCC facilities, and its team’s unrivaled knowledge, are truly second-to-none,” said Exail Chief Executive Officer Steven Luys, in the release. “Working with them to deliver our electronic boards will enable us to bring our innovation to life.”