Chess Dynamics, the leading British surveillance, tracking and gunfire control specialist has today announced the signing of a partnership agreement with Sydney-based SME Owen International Pty Ltd. The partnership sees the establishment of an Australian supply and support facility for Chess’ Sea Eagle family of Fire Control Electro Optical (FCEO) systems.
The agreement will involve the transfer of IP and training of Australian personnel to be able to commission, repair and upgrade Chess systems and continue development of domestic support capabilities. It formalises the association of the two companies, which began four years ago and grew substantially with the selection of the Type 26 for the Hunter Class programme in 2018, where Chess’ Sea Eagle systems will be integrated.
Owen International has established a regional capability to undertake maintenance, repair and overhaul tasks on Electro-Optical Gun Fire Control Systems from Chess Dynamics as well as on Visual Landing Aid systems already in service across multiple Royal Australian Navy ship classes.
Martin Read, Naval and Security Systems sales manager at Chess Dynamics, said: “We’re delighted to have signed this partnership agreement with Owen International. This ensures that our Australian Sea Eagle customers will receive a responsive and flexible support service, and it will give additional confidence in the ongoing performance of our world-leading systems.
“The partnership will also enable us to meet the future needs of the Australian Navy, support Australian industrial capability, and boost the defence SME sector and its supply chains.”