Littoral sub ops

Modern sensor technology really... really makes submarine operations in the littorals, a risky proposition. Here are only a few examples. There are many more.

Ocean Optics: Fundamentals & Naval Applications Technical Training Short Course Sampler from Jim Jenkins

"LADS (Australia)

Not conceived as an ASW system, the Laser Airborne Depth Sounder is an underwater survey system said to be able to penetrate 50m of water under all sea conditions. The stablized laser scans a 240m-wide swath at a rate of 168pps, producing a grid pattern of spots 10m apart. LADS was developed by DSTO in the mid-1970s and a contract for an operatonal version was awarded to the Australian company BHP Engineering Pty Ltd. in May 1989. Sweden showed interest in LADS as a means of detecting small submarines in very shallow water under poor acoustic condtions." (Source: page 662, Antisubarine Warfare.The Naval Institute Guide to World Naval Weapons Systems, 1997-1998 By Norman Friedman).

Fortunately China would never be able to develop such a thing.

Something to think about when someone oversells Virginia-class "littoral" (or Collins replacement) sneak and peak capability.



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