Norwegian Navy Enhances Mine Countermeasures with New Systems
The Royal Norwegian Navy has bolstered its mine countermeasures capabilities with the acquisition of new acoustic minesweeping systems from Finnish company Patria. This delivery marks the completion of an order placed in 2021 for Patria’s SONAC ACS systems, with the first batch having been received earlier last year.
The introduction of these advanced systems comes as the Navy retires its older ELMA-AGATE sweep, signaling a significant upgrade in Norway’s capability to clear minefields. According to Commander Bengt Berdal, the SONAC ACS systems have demonstrated exceptional handling and reliability, positioning them among the most sophisticated minesweeping technologies currently in operation.
Technical Specifications of SONAC ACS Systems
Patria’s SONAC ACS systems are designed to be compact and lightweight, making them suitable for deployment on both crewed and uncrewed maritime vessels. The system measures 260 centimeters (8 feet) in length and features a streamlined cylindrical tow body, which minimizes drag during operation.
When on land, the system weighs between 400 to 500 kilograms (881 to 1,102 pounds); however, it becomes significantly lighter when submerged, weighing approximately 180 to 220 kilograms (396 to 485 pounds). This versatility enhances its deployment potential across various maritime platforms.
Advanced Acoustic Technology
One of the standout features of the SONAC ACS is its advanced acoustic technology, which can replicate the sound signature of any ship. This capability allows for high-quality sound production across a broad frequency spectrum, ranging from infrasonic to ultrasonic bands, specifically between 7 Hz and 70 kHz.
This sophisticated sound mimicking makes it difficult for mines to distinguish between an actual vessel and the SONAC ACS, potentially leading to premature detonation. The system operates effectively in three distinct modes: mine setting, target simulation, and mine jamming, providing versatility in various operational scenarios.
Customizability and Operational Flexibility
Operators of the SONAC ACS are equipped with a comprehensive library of acoustic signals, allowing them to choose from a wide array of options tailored for specific mission requirements. Additionally, the system allows for the creation of custom signals, enhancing its adaptability to different operational contexts.
This level of customizability ensures that Norwegian naval forces can effectively respond to varying threats in mine-affected waters, reinforcing their commitment to maintaining maritime safety and security.
