CURRENT Scientific Corporation (CURRENT), a leading Canadian manufacturer of electro-optical infrared (EO/IR) camera systems based in British Columbia, is thrilled to announce its latest contribution to the Royal Canadian Navy (RCN).
CURRENT will be supporting Federal Fleet Services (FFS), operator of the Combat Support Ship (CSS) Asterix, Canada’s largest Combat Support Ship, with cutting edge maritime surveillance capabilities. This partnership underscores CURRENT’s commitment to developing innovative technological solutions to keep Canadian waters safe. As a result, the CSS Asterix will now be equipped with a state-of-the-art EO/IR system.
CURRENT’s camera technology will be integrated with the recently acquired MARSS NiDAR Command and Control (C2) and Counter Uncrewed Aerial System (CUAS), linking advanced hardware capabilities to the MARSS system. Furthermore, the integration of CURRENT’s Night Navigator™ into CSS Asterix’s surveillance system will empower RCN crews to support the CSS Asterix’s day-to-day operations and to rapidly detect threats.
The Night Navigator™ performs seamlessly day and night, even in adverse weather conditions, thereby significantly enhancing operational effectiveness, reducing response times, and improving personnel safety.
“We are honoured to contribute to the Royal Canadian Navy’s maritime surveillance capabilities,” said Greg Menzies, President of CURRENT. “With our extensive expertise, we are well positioned to provide comprehensive imaging solutions to the Canadian Forces, ensuring the protection and security of our territorial waters. Our imaging systems are currently deployed worldwide in various maritime and land-based surveillance programs, serving the Naval and Defence sectors, as well as the commercial and yacht industries.”
“This partnership between Davie, Federal Fleet Services and CURRENT will enable the Canadian Navy to test advanced Canadian technology and will showcase Canada’s technological expertise for the world to see. We are convinced this partnership will benefit our crew members and help advance Canada’s operational objectives,” said John Schmidt, President and CEO of Federal Fleet Services.
This partnership is the result of an investment made under the Industrial and Technological Benefits Policy, which underscores Chantier Davie Canada Inc. (Davie)’s unwavering dedication to fostering innovation in Canada’s EO/IR Systems Key Industrial Capability. This collaboration empowers CURRENT to further the development of the Night Navigator™ technology, gaining invaluable real-time insights in the years to come. Moving forward, Davie intends to support Canadian technologies while reinforcing Canada’s shipbuilding industry and propelling it to new heights.