Strong Torpedo Fiber Optic Communications Link

Current wire guided torpedoes rely upon conventional metal conductors for the communications link between the submarine and torpedo. As the range of torpedoes increases, the bandwidth of this link decreases, and the rate of data transmission drops. The use of optical fiber cables in place of the conventional wire promises very significant increases in bandwidth and also a saving in space, since a single fiber can be used in place of the current 2 wires. The need therefore is for a small diameter (0.030”) lightweight, low cost optical fiber cable that is sufficiently durable and robust to withstand the stresses associated with torpedo launch and deployment. We propose the use of a novel polymeric coating to produce a tight jacketed fiber optic cable, capable of sustaining loads of up to 30 lbs and with excellent moisture barrier properties. The cable will be manufactured using conventional extrusion techniques and at a cost of less than 20 c per m.