Sonobuoy – Electronic Function Selector (EFS) Replacement

Present sonobuoys allow for the selection of functions such as RF Channel, Depth, etc. by use of a single selector button and LED display along with a second button used for verification located on the side of the sonobuoy. Selection or verification requires access to the buttons and cannot be accomplished once the sonobuoy is loaded into the launcher. The capability to select and verify functions using a wireless, battery-operated, handheld device useable in low light conditions that can interface to a standard personal computer (PC) has been deemed desirable for future sonobuoys by NAVAIR. Additionally, this capability should be adaptable to the multi-mission maritime aircraft (MMA) so that programming and verification can be accomplished via direct interface with the mission computer while the sonobuoy is in the launcher and while the aircraft is in flight. SEA CORP will investigate the application of innovative technologies to accomplishing wireless programming via a handheld device. The SEA CORP solution will address specific requirements for battery-powered and low light capability. It will cost under $200 and provide PC interface with adaptability to the MMA. Reliability and the ability to operate in various environments are key factors that will be addressed. BENEFITS: Existing sonobuoys with operator-select functionality require presets to be selected prior to tube-loading by a technician. Once these presets are selected at the sonobuoy, an additional step is required to communicate these selections to the on-board flight crew. The flight crew then must input these presets into the launch control software. The ability to program the sonobuoy with a handheld device and to download these presets directly into the MMA mission computer eliminates significant potential for miscommunication. Further, having the option of altering these presets while the sonobuoy is in the launch tube provides the option of ensuring the sonobuoy is properly set to take advantage of the prevailing oceanographic acoustic environment. The ability to maintain the tactical advantage in any given oceanographic environment is the primary factor in maintenance of supremacy in the undersea battlespace.