German shipbuilder and former future submarine bidder thyssenkrupp Marine Systems has re-evaluated its Australian business structure following the recent total acquisition of Atlas Elektronik and Australian subsidiary Sonartech Atlas.
Sonartech Atlas is a systems engineering company specialising in the design and development of sonar systems for naval applications. It has developed specialised sonars and related technology for applications ranging from submarines and mine warfare to hydrographic surveying and oceanographic research.
This strategic assessment conducted by the parent company concluded that the naval ship design and engineering arm of thyssenkrupp Marine Systems Australia can be more efficiently and sustainably developed under a new ownership structure.
With effect from 1 September 2017, the ownership of thyssenkrupp Marine Systems Australia was transferred to its management team after a management buyout. The company name reverted to the original Australian Maritime Technologies Pty Ltd (AMT) which will be familiar to many in the Australian defence industry. AMT was formed 30 years ago to provide a home for technology transferred to Australia as part of the ANZAC Frigate Project. The spare parts services business of thyssenkrupp Marine Systems in Australia will be integrated into the Australian Sonartech business.
"Australia continues to be an important market for us, CEO thyssenkrupp Marine Systems Dr. Rolf Wirtz said. "We are eager to compete in new projects and prove that we are the best choice when it comes to naval shipbuilding."
Managing director of Sonartech Atlas Mark Baker said the integration of the spare parts business into Sonartech maintains the local presence and provides the local support thyssenkrupp Marine Systems customers expect.
"We look forward to working with the customers, to ensure access to the innovative solutions and longstanding experience they have come to appreciate," Baker said.
Through this new arrangement thyssenkrupp Marine Systems will continue to work with the Royal Australian Navy providing spare parts for the ANZAC frigates and access to high performance innovative technology, such as the HABETaS individual escape system and IDAS active self defence system for airborne ASW threats for the upcoming new build projects.