French Navy tests new magnetic anomaly detection system on NH-90 Caïman naval cooperation helicopters as part of Anti-Submarine Warfare. The French Navy has announced that it has carried out the first tests of the new MAD-XR (Magnetic Anomaly Detection-Extended Role) system on a NH-90 Caïman naval cooperation helicopter. The system is used to detect submarines. Compared to the MAD version, the MAD-XR has smaller size, weight and power requirements and thus can be integrated into UAVs, in addition to helicopters and aircraft. We remind you that the French Navy maintains 27 NH-90 Caiman helicopters in service, whose deliveries were completed in 2021. A handful of ASW systems have already had MAD-XR installations. CAE and Mitsubishi Electric Corporation supply MAD-XR systems for Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force P-1 maritime patrol aircraft and US Navy MH-60R 'Romeo' helicopters, respectively.
Lockheed Martin integrate the MAD-XR. In addition, the UK's ASW Spearhead programme has sponsored the acquisition of two MAD-XR systems for testing with the Royal Navy's Merlin HM2 helicopter fleet.
