U.S. Navy To Expand Production Of Advanced Sonobuoys To Track Silent Submarines

The United States is increasing its focus on detecting submarines as underwater threats become more advanced.

The United States Navy has awarded a contract to Ultra Maritime to begin production of the AN/SSQ-125B sonobuoys.

These sonobuoys are small, expendable devices that are usually dropped into the sea from aircraft. Once deployed, they act as temporary underwater listening systems, picking up sound signals and sending them back for analysis.

The AN/SSQ-125B is an upgraded version designed to detect quieter and more advanced submarines at greater distances.

It is also built to work in difficult ocean conditions, including shallow waters and areas with high background noise such as busy shipping lanes or rough seas.

The contract is a sole-source firm fixed-price agreement for low-rate initial production. It will support training, routine operations and testing, while also helping the Navy maintain enough stock for potential combat situations under its naval munitions requirements process.

According to Carlo Zaffanella, President and CEO of Ultra Maritime, the new system is expected to improve how submarines are detected as undersea threats become more advanced and harder to track.

He stated that the AN/SSQ-125B can detect even very quiet submarines over longer ranges and provide clearer acoustic data, helping operators make quicker decisions.

The system includes improved signal processing and better acoustic performance, allowing it to function effectively in complex environments.

These improvements are expected to strengthen anti-submarine warfare operations by improving detection and tracking.

Sonobuoys are often used in groups, spread over a wide area to create an underwater surveillance grid. This allows operators to compare signals from multiple points and accurately track submarine movements.

Ultra Maritime has also invested in new sonar technologies and dedicated manufacturing facilities to support production of the system.

The company said these investments will help ensure it can meet future demand and maintain long-term supply.

As submarine technology continues to improve, older detection methods are becoming less effective.

Systems like the AN/SSQ-125B are being developed to improve sensitivity and performance, especially in challenging acoustic conditions.

Reference: interestingengineering