UK Defence Contractor Calls on Vitavox to Develop Critical Loudspeaker Component for cutting-edge Royal Navy Submarines

In December 2010, Vitavox were commissioned by the largest UK-based defence contractor to develop a high-performance external loudspeaker for the Royal Navy’s new Astute Class attack submarines. The existing US-made loudspeakers proved deficient – lacking sufficient loudness and durability to withstand rugged deep-sea conditions.

Our Challenge:  Engineer Durable, Dual-Purpose Loudspeaker That Can Withstand Extreme Ocean Depths

Drawing on prior experience providing external loudspeakers for older UK submarine classes, we tackled this urgent national defense project aiming to enhance crew safety and communication. Specific Royal Navy requirements demanded our innovative solution:

• Withstand pressure at operational depths far exceeding 200 meters outside the submarine’s main hull
• Perform double duty as both a loudspeaker for command broadcasting AND a microphone for 2-way communications
• Connect with existing electrical interfaces as a drop-in replacement
• Resist corrosion and debris infiltration over prolonged seafaring missions

By May 2011, we successfully developed and demonstrated initial prototypes fulfilling all major naval engineering benchmarks. Further refinement led to installation of our first bronze-constructed units by November 2011.

Powerful Performance Under Pressure:  Vitavox Answers Call to Equip Cutting-Edge Subs Protecting Global Waters

Soon after onboard testing, the Astute Class team reported outstanding audio clarity and loudness facilitating enhanced crew coordination and safety during risky deep-sea manoeuvres. This durable loudspeaker is now standard issue aboard all new Astute and next-generation Dreadnought subs that will patrol the world’s oceans defending British interests for decades to come.

With a proven track record meeting strict naval engineering standards, Vitavox looks forward to leveraging hard-won expertise to support other elite submarine fleets upgrading acoustic arrays to match today’s mounting undersea threats.