"The recent sinking of the South Korean warship Cheonan, a 1200 ton corvette which sank off Baengnyeong Island in the Yellow Sea is a timely warning that mine clearance is a critical activity for nations’ navies,” said ATSA Operations Director, Neil Hodges. Reports suggest the explosion that left 46 of the ship’s crew missing after the ship sank may have been caused by a drifting sixty-year old sea mine. “Danger presented by either positioned or drifting mines highlights the need for the Australian Navy to ensure its readiness by having the latest equipment and technology that could prevent further disasters of this kind.”
“The Korean incident is a graphic example of the rapid and devastating effects of sea mines which are difficult to detect unless ships deployed for mine detection and disposal are kept at a high state of readiness,” Hodges said.
The RAN boosted mine warfare capability in 1993 when it six Minehunter Coastal Class ships were constructed in Newcastle representing a quantum leap to third generation minehunting capability. The ships are equipped with the sophisticated BAE SYSTEMS Tactical Data System, the Thales 2093 Variable Depth Sonar and the Saab Underwater Systems Double Eagle MK II Mine Disposal System. ATSA provides specialised Remotely Operated Vehicle (ROV) support and services for systems including the Saab “Double Eagle” operated by the Royal Australian Navy.