Italian Coast Guard patrol boats to receive Raytheon integrated bridge system

The Italian Coast Guard has selected Raytheon to deliver its integrated bridge and navigation systems (IBNS) for installation onto two military patrol vessels, which are currently under construction.

Under the contract, Raytheon will partner with Seastema to supply the latest version of IBNS equipped with Seastema’s SEAS-Navy ship automation system to the vessels.

The latest generation IBNS features solid-state and conventional radars, electronic chart display and information system (ECDIS), one multi-functional workstation for access to ECDIS and ship control data (conning), as well as the adaptive trackpilot and a full package of navigation sensors.

Seastema will also provide advanced radar processors, a thermal imaging system, an advanced imaging processing feature that enables registering and off-line analysis and a 55in touch screen for the tactical command and control system room.

Raytheon Anschuetz general manager Lueder Hogrefe said the scalable and adaptable IBNS help meet the requirements of military applications for large and small naval platforms and are designed to increase efficiency in operation and offer customisation, such as control of any function from any place.

"Together with Seastema, we integrate the core ship electronics systems in a standardised but flexible manner to satisfy operational requirements of different missions and navies," Hogrefe added.

In addition to a new wide-screen, scalable multi-functional workstation, the IBNS provides high level of flexibility to adapt the bridge system to various mission and naval requirements, while the design help to reduce costs associated with engineering, logistics, spares and technical support.

The vessels are built at Fincantieri’s Castellammare di Stabia (Naples) shipyard for the Italian Coast Guard.