Compact Low Noise Acoustic Sensors for Sonobuoys

As foreign submarines become increasingly quieter, there is an ever-present need to improve the performance of passive surveillance systems to increase the probability of detection and ability to resolve critical signature differences useful for classification. Passive acoustic surveillance system such as sonobuoys typically employ arrays of hydrophones, configured to discriminate against background ocean noise. Generally speaking, the larger the array, the better noise performance it will have due to more directionality. The problem for sonobuoy based airborne Anti Submarine Warfare (ASW) have a strict volume and weight constraint; presently the US depends strictly on A-size form factor (4 7/8” x 36”) sonobuoys for a variety of reasons. Therefore, development of small sensor technology is particularly important as the US Navy seeks to remain at the forefront of the international ASW technology race. The issue of space within an A-size buoy presents the opportunity to develop a new, miniaturized acoustic sensor. SeaLandAire proposes to work in conjunction with Undersea Sensor Systems, Inc. (USSI), attacking the development challenges from a sonobuoy systems-engineering perspective. This teaming approach and systems perspective are important non-technical factors to ensure this SBIR funded effort can successfully transition to fleet use.