Sonobuoys: Enhancing France’s Anti-Submarine Warfare Capabilities
Thales Group has recently contracted Ultra Maritime to supply a range of advanced sonobuoys to the French defense procurement agency. This strategic deal includes the delivery of several innovative sonobuoy types, specifically the AN/SSQ-62E DICASS, AN/SSQ-53G DIFAR models, and the G-size AN/SSQ-536G bathythermograph sonobuoys. The integration of these high-performance technologies is set to significantly bolster France’s anti-submarine warfare capabilities by enhancing detection, localization, and classification of submerged threats.
According to Ultra Maritime, as the challenges posed by undersea threats become increasingly complex and stealthy, the need for superior sonobuoy performance has never been more critical. The company emphasized that improved acoustic output offered by these new systems could be the deciding factor in successfully identifying underwater threats before they go undetected.
The Systems
The AN/SSQ-62E DICASS is at the forefront of submarine detection technology. This sonobuoy transmits sound pulses and analyzes the returning echoes to effectively detect and locate submarines. Its operational capabilities allow it to function at depths of up to 1,500 feet (460 meters) and it has a weight of 36 pounds (16.3 kilograms). Its deployment can be executed from various platforms, including aircraft and naval vessels, making it a versatile asset.
In addition to the DICASS, the AN/SSQ-53G DIFAR sonobuoy is designed to enhance detection capabilities through its combination of directional and wide-band acoustic sensing. This advanced device incorporates GPS technology for accurate location tracking, weighing 21 pounds (9.5 kilograms) and operating effectively at depths of up to 1,000 feet (305 meters). Together with the DICASS, these systems represent a significant advancement in the capabilities of France’s maritime defense.
The G-size AN/SSQ-536G Bathythermograph Sonobuoys
Ultra Maritime is also set to deliver the G-size AN/SSQ-536G bathythermograph sonobuoys, which are especially advantageous for rotary-wing platforms and unmanned aerial vehicles. These sonobuoys are designed with size and weight limitations in mind, ensuring their adaptability in various operational contexts. By measuring water temperature at varying depths, these sonobuoys create a detailed profile that informs analysis of underwater acoustics.
The SSQ-536G can measure and record water temperatures across a depth range of up to 800 meters (2,625 feet) in under ten minutes, showcasing its rapid data collection capabilities. Furthermore, it can be deployed at speeds of up to 370 knots (425 miles/685 kilometers per hour), making it an efficient tool in maritime operations and contributing to enhanced situational awareness in anti-submarine warfare.
