Naval systems manufacturer Northrop Grumman will supply navigation radars for the Sydney Harbour Ferries fleet under a new contract.

Under the agreement Northrop will supply Sperry Marine new-generation VisionMaster FT chart radars for the 28-vessel fleet.

Northrop Grumman Naval Systems International vice-president J Nolasco DaCunha said the VisionMaster FT chart radars enhance situational awareness for watch officers by providing an overlay of radar images on a detailed electronic chart display.

“These new-generation radars employ advanced digital technology for automatic clutter suppression, providing a clearer picture of radar targets under difficult weather and sea conditions,” DaCunha said.

The Australian ferry fleet transports more than 14 million passengers and travel more than 1.3 million kilometres per year.

Installation work of the radars will be carried out by Electrotech Australia, Sperry Marine’s subsidiary in Australia.