Sonobuoys
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Sonobuoys

Context: India and the U.S. announced a partnership to co-produce U.S. sonobuoys, advanced technology used by the Indian Navy to track submarines in deep seas and oceans.

About sonobuoys

  • Sonobuoys are air-launched, expendable electro-mechanical sensors that are effective and affordable for detecting, classifying, and executing enemy submarines and ships.
  • They relay underwater sounds to remote processors for anti-submarine warfare (ASW).
  • High-Altitude Anti-Submarine Warfare (HAASW) sonobuoys detect submarines from altitudes up to 30,000 feet.
  • Used by airborne ASW fighters for submarine tracking.
  • Help the Navy carry out precision attacks using air-launched torpedoes.
  • Sonobuoys can be deployed on aircraft, submarines, or ships. They are crucial for protecting carrier strike groups from submarine attacks and enhancing naval security.

Sonobuoys Procurement

  • The Indian Navy is procuring three types of advanced sonobuoys for enhanced anti-submarine warfare (ASW) efficiency:
  • AN/SSQ-53G:
    • Uses DIFAR technology for passive underwater sound detection.
    • Operates at depths of up to 300 meters and can be launched from 9,144 meters altitude.
    • Offers EFS (pre-launch sensor settings) and CFS (remote setting adjustments).
    • Provides discreet detection capabilities.
  • AN/SSQ-62F:
    • Features DICASS technology for active sonar, emitting sound waves to detect submarines.
    • Operates at depths of up to 460 meters and includes GPS for precise location reporting.
    • Offers real-time submarine detection, providing a strategic advantage.
  • AN/SSQ-36:
  1. Measures water temperature to improve sonar accuracy by refining sound propagation calculations.
  2. Plays a supporting role in enhancing overall ASW detection.

Strategic Importance:

  • The acquisition of advanced sonobuoys helps India counter growing submarine threats in the Indo-Pacific, especially from China.
  • Increased Chinese submarine patrols in the Indian Ocean make monitoring and response more critical.
  • Sonobuoys’ active and passive modes provide flexibility in various operational scenarios.
  • They will improve the probability of detecting enemy submarines and enhance maritime security.
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