Anti-Submarine Wake-Activated Sensors

A sensor/communications package is demonstrated that can sense the physical presence of a submerged submarine at very short range, and that can be manufactured cheaply enough to enable very high density seeding of anti-submarine barriers using environmentally benign materials. The method is based on specially designed composite sensor particles activated by the submarine propulsor wake turbulence. These sensors are small nano or micron sized with wake induced signal emitters and tailored life. The sensor material is sown in a barrier field from air or surface craft. Sensor detectability is achieved by secondary remote airborne sensor technology. Prototypes are developed as well as demonstration of the functionality of the detection and communications system. The package includes a communications and data processing unit for monitoring the sensors in the water. An automated pilot sensor manufacturing process is demonstrated on small affordable batches capable of producing 100,000 units per week. Sensors and monitor are provided to the U.S. Navy for functional tests in a field environment and commercial opportunities are explored.