A Towed Parametric Sonar for Littoral Warfare, Mine Hunting, and Mapping

The conceptual design is presented of a Remote Operating Minehunting Parametric Sonar (ROMPS), for use with the existing Perry technologies RMV as an unmanned tow-vehicle. The ROMPS has three separate sonar systems, viz. (1) a forward-looking sonar, (2)) a side-looking sonar, and (3) a conventional fathometer. Both the forward-looking sonar and the side-looking sonar can operate at their primary frequencies and at much lower parametric frequencies. The forward-looking and side-looking sytems, both the primary and parametric modes, cover different but adjoining frequency bands. Thus, the separate systems can operate simultaneously, or in rapid sequence without target confusion. The ROMPS electronic system would be fully digital, utilizing the latest integrated circuitry and microprocessors. Preliminary calculations indicate that, because of the low-frequency, narrow beams that are free of side-lobes, parametric operation can detect mines and obstacles in the very-shallow-water and surface-zone regions atstand-off distances of approximately 5000 yards.