Submarine-Based System for Detecting Ocean Penetrating Laser Radar

Several countries are developing and marketing ocean-penetrating laser radar systems that can be used for lidar bathymetry, water environmental probing, and/or ASW. In an ASW mode, such sensors could be used for submarine search, detection, localization, and target characterization. Pacific-Sierra Research Corporation proposes to design, develop, and demonstrate a submarine-based sensor for detecting airborne ocean- penetrating laser radar systems. The Phase I program will produce a design and predict the performance for a sensor that will detect and provide advanced warning of such laser radar threat systems. The Phase II program will develop a prototype sensor and validate its performance during an at-sea test. The proposed sensor will permit detection at sufficiently great ranges to permit evasive maneuvers to be performed by the submarine operator.