Multiple Source Capable Miniature Directional Acoustic Receiver

Due to the emerging threat of quiet diesel-electric submarines in the cluttered littoral environment, the Navy recognizes the need for an improved sensor system. Initial results from tests indicate that multistatic receivers used with high-power active sources can provide the enhanced performance necessary to operate in the unforgiving acoustic environment of littoral waters. The performance is further enhanced by increasing the local population of receivers, and by adding directional capability. By reducing the size of the individual directional receivers, an increased numbers of sensors can be deployed from the same delivery vehicle. SeaLandAire Technologies proposes to address this opportunity by partnering with Undersea Sensor Systems, Inc. (USSI) to develop a Miniature Directional Acoustic Receiver in an MJU-10 package (MDAR10). SeaLandAire and USSI both bring years of experience in sonobuoy development, packaging, and transition to production to this effort, which offers significant advantages to the Navy's interests - to implement successful hardware in the field in a timely manner. In addition, USSI also increases the validity of the proposed effort due to prior experience in the miniaturization of DIFAR transducer technology.