A bullet-shaped radar-detecting device, about the size of two stacked jam tins and built to fit into the periscopes of the SA Navy's three new submarines, is proving to be a money-spinner for the Cape Town-based firm that designed it.

According to its manufacturers, Avitronics Maritime, orders for the electronic support measures (ESM) equipment have been received from both the Greek and South Korean navies.

The exports - which the company says is a direct result of the industrial participation strategy linked to government's multi-billion-rand arms deal - have added about R125 million to Avitronics' turnover.

What makes the South African-built ESM device unique is its miniaturisation, and incorporation in the periscope mast.

"By making our components smaller, and at the same time more effective, we have reduced the number of masts a submarine needs for these tasks," said Avitronics MD Ben Ash.

With acknowledgements to Sapa and The Natal Witness.