BAE Systems has received a $36-million production order from Lockheed Martin to build multifunction modular mast (MMM) units for the US Navy’s Virginia-class submarines.

MMM is a radio-frequency receiving antenna designed to scan, classify, and map signals of enemy submarines before they surface.

It is enclosed in a “pressure-rated and corrosion-resistant” composite radome structure to survive underwater conditions while limiting the visual and radar profile of the structure.

The architecture also supports payload modules that can host additional sensors for future missions.

Once installed aboard Virginia submarines, the MMM will be paired with Lockheed Martin’s AN/BLQ-10 electronic warfare suite, giving ships a reinforced sensing solution to detect and track hostile communications while remaining submerged.

Work will take place at BAE’s facilities in New Hampshire, including Hudson, Merrimack, and Nashua.

“In dynamic and contested environments, stealth is key, and submarines rely on accurate communications signal information to make decisions quickly,” said Michael Rottman, program area director for maritime sensors and systems at BAE Systems.

“The Multifunction Modular Mast system equips US Navy submarines with critical capabilities to locate and identify potential threats.”