This is my “sonar blog,” which I call “pings.” I write about what’s happening in the Sonar World, both Commercial and Military.
First Antarctica expedition of Schmidt Ocean Institute successfully completed
Schmidt Ocean Institute’s research vessel Falkor (too) has marked a major milestone with the completion of its first Antarctic science expedition. After a year of meticulous preparations, both the ship and crew embarked on a three-week journey, navigating the region’s challenging conditions to conduct groundbreaking research. The mission, which concluded in early January, pushed the boundaries of scientific exploration while fine-tuning operational strategies for future voyages.
The scientific operations included eight dives to depths as great as 3,918 metres using the remotely operated vehicle (ROV) SuBastian to assess biodiversity and explore vents and seafloor mapping. Ice pilots and crew transported scientists via small boats to places like Joinville Island, off the northeastern tip of the Antarctic Peninsula, for marine mammal and sea bird research.
Denmark selects Atlas Elektronik for ASW towed array sonar for frigates
Denmark’s Defence Acquisition and Logistics Organisation (DALO) has selected Atlas Elektronik to supply Low Frequency Active Towed Array Sonar (TAS) systems for retrofit to the Royal Danish Navy’s two Absalon-class frigates.
The ACTAS ‘wet end’ combines a high source level active transmitter (operating at a frequency range of 1.4-2.4 kHz) with a passive line array (covering frequencies between 50 Hz and 10 kHz). A triplet array (employing three hydrophones on a circular section of the array) is used to instantaneously resolve left/right bearing ambiguity.
Atlas Elektronik has previously supplied the ASO 94 medium-frequency hull-mounted sonars fitted to the two Absalon-class ships and the three Iver Huitfeldt-class frigates. DALO said that as well as meeting all operational requirements, the fact that Atlas Elektronik was already a supplier of other sonar equipment systems on Danish frigates would allow “a streamlining of ongoing operation and maintenance processes on the ships”. The acquisition of Low Frequency Active TAS systems for the Absalon-class frigates forms part of a wider effort to rebuild the Royal Danish Navy’s ASW capabilities. The other major part of this package is equipping Royal Danish Air Force-operated MH-60R helicopters with a sonics suite (dipping sonar and sonobuoy processing) and lightweight torpedoes.
France joins Belgian-Dutch mine countermeasures vessel program
France has joined the Belgium-led replacement Mine Countermeasures (rMCM) program that was originally established to introduce a new class of mine countermeasures (MCM) vessels into service with the Belgian and Royal Netherlands Navies.
Representatives of the three countries’ governments recently signed the formal letter granting a sub-licence to France. This gives the three countries equal rights to the ship design of the platform developed by the Naval Group as part of the rMCM program.
Belgium was the first country to take delivery of rMCM ships. For the Belgian Navy, the lead ship is Oostende (pictured), named after the Flemish coastal city, and all six ships for Belgium will be known as the City-class.
The French Kership joint venture between the Naval Group and Piriou is in charge of the production of the rMCM ships, which are assembled in Concarneau and Lanester. They will be then all armed afloat by Piriou in Concarneau.
The Naval Group, as overall architect and prime contractor, is responsible for the design of the ships, the overall integration, and the testing and commissioning of the mission system, which includes the combat system and the mine countermeasures system.
Northrop Grumman asked for upgrades of Side-scan sonar and digital signal processing for mine hunting
Undersea warfare experts at Northrop Grumman Corp. will upgrade and repair the U.S. Navy AN/AQS-24 airborne and surface mine hunting and detection sonar system under terms of a $15.2 million order.
The AN/AQS-24 can be towed through the water by surface vessels and helicopters in areas where naval commanders believe enemy anti-ship mines may be present. The system can work at speeds as fast as 18 knots.
It uses high-resolution side-scan sonar for real-time detection, localization, and classification of bottom and moored mines at high area coverage rates. Its laser line scanner provides precision optical identification of underwater mines and other objects of interest.
Its sonar and laser line scanner can work at the same time to detect and identify sea mines and other underwater objects. The system offers target box cuing and high-speed operation to provide high-resolution optical imagery for target identification.
The AN/AQS-24 offers synthetic aperture sonar and advanced navigation controls and digital signal processing for target positioning. The system is rapidly deployable, and has been towed from aircraft, surface ships, and remotely operated vehicles.
Increased sonar resolution
The upgrades were to increase the systems’s performance by adding a high-speed synthetic-aperture sonar, which increases sonar resolution by a factor of three while maintaining 18-knot speed performance, Northrop Grumman officials say. The upgrades also eliminate parts obsolescence issues.
The synthetic aperture sonar enables the device to scan the ocean floor at three times the resolution of the earlier system. The Navy operates the AQS-24B from MH-53E helicopters and Mine Hunting Unmanned Surface Vessels (MHU).
Need Enhanced ASW Capabilities? Bingo!
Japanese shipbuilder Mitsubishi Heavy Industries (MHI) has just named and launched Bingo, set to become the fourth Hibiki-class ocean surveillance vessel of the Japanese Maritime Self-Defence Force (JMSDF).
The ship was launched on Monday at MHI’s shipyard in Tamano, which sits halfway between Hiroshima and Kobe on the south coast of Japan’s main island, Honshu.
As per a recent JMSDF social media statement, the acoustic measurement vessel’s moniker was chosen from the name of a local bay, Bingo-nada, part of the Seto Inland Sea.
Once fitting out is complete, Bingo is scheduled to be commissioned in March next year. According to reports the cost of the vessel, ordered in 2022, is estimated in the region of $130 million.
The Hibiki-class ships are designed as mobile sonar listening stations designed to detect and track submarines in the seas around Japan using towed sonar arrays.
The vessels have an AN/UQQ-2 Surveillance Towed Array Sensor System (SURTASS), which was installed in the United States. Data from the sensors is relayed through the Defense Satellite Communications System and processed and shared with the United States.[8] The data is fed into the Integrated Undersea Surveillance System.
Polish Navy minesweeper ORP Mamry is undergoing sea trials after the completion of a refit carried out by PGZ’s Stocznia Wojenna shipyard.
The vessel, which has been in service since 1992, is one of 21 MCM ships in active service with the Polish Navy. The first boat in her class, she has a crew of 30 and was designed to hunt and dispose of contact and non-contact sea mines.
The hull is constructed of a polyester-glass laminate to reduce her magnetic field to enhance her mine-hunting capabilities.
As per a recent PGZ press statement, her sea trials began earlier this month following completion of the refit, which included new engines and propulsion system, generators, and navigation and communication systems.
The firm stated: “The works carried out significantly increase the unit’s efficiency, improve the crew’s working conditions and reduce operating costs.”
Saab Launches Upgraded HMS Halland Submarine, Enhancing Swedish Navy’s Capabilities
Saab has successfully launched the third and final Gotland-class submarine, HMS Halland, following an extensive mid-life upgrade (MLU) for the Swedish Navy.
The upgraded submarine was recently floated out at Saab’s shipyard in Karlskrona, marking a significant milestone in the modernization of Sweden’s submarine fleet. HMS Halland completes the series of Gotland-class vessels undergoing comprehensive upgrades, which incorporate advanced technologies and systems aligned with those planned for the next-generation Blekinge-class submarines.
This upgrade significantly extends the operational lifespan of HMS Halland, enabling it to perform complex maritime missions for years to come. The vessel now joins its sister submarines, HMS Gotland and HMS Uppland, which have previously completed similar upgrades, collectively strengthening Sweden’s underwater defense capabilities.
Commenting on the launch, Saab highlighted the strategic importance of the upgrade.
“Securing critical underwater infrastructure and sea lanes is more important than ever. The launch of HMS Halland is a testament to Saab’s ability to upgrade and deliver advanced submarines with the capabilities the Swedish Navy requires. With HMS Halland, the Swedish Navy, and by extension NATO, gains additional strength to defend and monitor the Baltic Sea.”
The modernization of HMS Halland not only boosts the Swedish Navy’s operational effectiveness but also enhances the collective maritime security framework in the Baltic region.
U.S. Navy AN/SQQ-89A(V)15 anti-submarine warfare (ASW) systems
Undersea warfare experts at the Lockheed Martin Corp. Rotary and Mission Systems segment in Manassas, Va., will support the U.S. Navy AN/SQQ-89A(V)15 anti-submarine warfare (ASW) systems for surface warships under terms of a $502.2 million contract.
The AN/SQQ-89A(V)15 is an undersea combat system for surface warships is designed to search for, detect, classify, localize, and track underwater contacts; and to attack or avoid enemy submarines, floating, tethered, or bottom-attached mines, and torpedoes.
The AN/SQQ-89A(V)15 uses active and passive sonar to enable Navy Arleigh Burke-class destroyers and Ticonderoga-class cruisers to detect, locate, track, and attack hostile submarines, mines, and torpedoes.
The counter-mine and anti-torpedo system provides multi-sensor track correlation and target track management control, and forwards data to the ship’s weapons and decision-support systems. The AN/SQQ-89A(V)15 works together with the ship’s active and passive hull sonar, multi-function towed array, sonobuoy processing, torpedo alerts, fire-control system, sensor performance predictions, embedded operator, and team training systems.
Swedish FMV selects Teledyne Gavia AUVs to boost MCM
The GAVIA AUVs come with EdgeTech 2205 side scan sonar and Teledyne Flir Blackfly-S camera.
The Swedish Defence Materiel Administration (FMV) has entered a multi-year framework agreement with Teledyne Gavia to procure autonomous underwater vehicles (AUVs).
The agreement focuses on the acquisition of portable modular GAVIA AUVs to bolster Swedish Navy Mine Counter Measures (MCM) capabilities.
These GAVIA AUVs come with EdgeTech 2205 side scan sonar and Teledyne Flir Blackfly-S camera.
The modular design of the AUVs allows for future upgrades and the integration of additional payloads such as synthetic aperture sonar, magnetometers, and multibeams.
U.S. Navy Awards Contract for Deployment of Future Mine Countermeasures Capabilities
The U.S. Navy has recently awarded a series of contracts, under Program Executive Office, Unmanned and Small Combatants (PEO USC), to facilitate Littoral Combat Ship (LCS) Mine Countermeasures (MCM) Mission Package (MP) deployments.
The MCM Unmanned Surface Vehicle (USV) is an unmanned, diesel-powered surface craft that can be launched from an LCS, vessel of opportunity, or shore. Its modular flexibility allows integration with multiple payload delivery systems that perform MCM missions, including minesweeping, mine hunting, and mine neutralization. By awarding these contracts, the Navy is ensuring it has the most advanced unmanned systems to effectively conduct mine countermeasure missions in the littorals.
The Navy awarded the first contract to Bollinger Shipyards for an MCM USV Advanced Material Order (AMO), valued at $7.7 million, which is expected to be completed in September 2025. This contract will procure items needed to improve the MCM USV based on findings from operational testing.
The Navy also awarded a production contract for the Minehunt Payload Delivery System (MH PDS) to Raytheon Technologies. This contract is valued at $18.3 million to produce five units with deliveries by the end of FY26.
Yasen-M Submarines
Russia’s Yasen-M-class submarines are among the most advanced in its fleet, with the capability to fire Tsirkon hypersonic missiles. According to Russia’s TASS news agency, the fifth Yasen-M submarine, Perm, will be the first regular carrier of these advanced missiles, featuring slight structural differences from its predecessors.
In December 2024, Russia commissioned its fourth Yasen-class submarine, further expanding its fleet. If Russia achieves its goal of building up to 11 Yasen-class submarines, with 10 of them being the modernized “M” variants, it could outpace the U.S. in equipping attack submarines with hypersonic weapons by 2028. This concern was raised in Congress by former Chief of Naval Operations Adm. Michael Gilday during earlier stages of the Yasen-M’s development.
The Yasen class dates back more than a decade to the launch of Severodvinsk, but the first Yasen-M variant, Kazan, appeared in 2021, with more planned for construction in the coming years.
The primary sonar suite is the MGK-600 Irtysh-Amfora, a spherical bow array that represents a significant advancement over previous designs. This spherical configuration allows for a larger surface area for hydrophone arrays, resulting in greater sensitivity and improved passive detection capabilities.
In addition to the spherical bow array, the Yasen-class submarines are fitted with flank arrays and a towed array system. The flank arrays, positioned along the sides of the submarine, provide enhanced detection of contacts at various bearings, while the towed array offers superior capabilities in detecting and tracking targets at extended ranges.
The integration of these sonar components enables the Yasen-class submarines to effectively monitor their surroundings, detect potential threats, and maintain situational awareness in diverse maritime environments.
This technology closely mirrors the U.S. Navy’s Large Aperture Bow sonar found on Block III Virginia-class attack submarines.
NOAA awards Fugro new five-year hydrographic survey contract
Fugro has been awarded a new five-year contract by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) for hydrographic survey services.
Under this indefinite delivery/indefinite quantity (IDIQ) contract, Fugro will support the creation and maintenance of highly accurate nautical charts, which will ensure safe and efficient maritime navigation within US waters. Projects can be assigned to any of the six companies holding an IDIQ contract based on the NOAA’s ongoing priorities.
Mystery over World War II ship torpedoed by Nazi Germany finally solved
A World War Two ship torpedoed by Germany has been discovered along the coast of Rio De Janeiro using sonar imaging.
More than 100 soldiers were killed when a German submarine U-861 sank Brazil’s ‘Vital de Oliveira’ in 1942, becoming the country’s only vessel to be destroyed by enemy forces.
A multibeam echo sounder and side scan sonar were deployed to map the ocean floor and create three-dimensional models.
The discovery of the hull of the sunken ship took place on the morning of January 16, about 50 miles off the coast of Macaé, and was aided by local divers.
‘Vital de Oliveira’ was built in 1910 and incorporated into the Brazilian Navy in 1931.
Kelp detection and Calssifaction using Multibeam Sonar
Researchers have developed and tested a method to detect kelp density using multibeam echosounder water column data. The data is processed into a point cloud, and various variables are derived to classify habitats using a Random Forest model. The data was acquired using the KONGSBERG multibeam echosounder EM2040C.
Results showed a 72.5% accuracy for detecting kelp density at 5 m resolution, highlighting the method’s effectiveness even in areas impacted by sidelobe noise.
Modern Multibeam Echosounders can record backscatter data from the water column, capturing the entire acoustic signal along each beam. This allows for the detection and imaging of features or objects within the water column.
These data provide a comprehensive 3D view of the marine environment between the ship and the seafloor, enabling the characterization of features above or extending from the seafloor. Multibeam Echosounders have been used for various applications, such as detecting fish schools and gas seeps. They also have the potential to be used for marine vegetation and may enhance benthic habitat maps.
Klein Side-scan Sonar
Vince Capone of Black Laser Learning shares some outstanding side-scan sonar imagery—all captured using Klein sonars.
With over 35 years of experience in side-scan sonar and a Master’s in Marine Science (with a minor in Experimental Statistics), Vince is widely recognized as an expert in the field. The U.S. Navy and U.S. Federal Court system acknowledge him as a Level IV Subject Matter Expert (SME) in side-scan sonar systems and operations.
Thales will provide the French Navy with sovereign anti-submarine warfare sonobuoys
Thales will enhance the anti-submarine warfare capabilities of the French Navy by providing several hundred SonoFlash sonobuoys. These expendable sonar buoy are the only such models to offer both active and passive modes: they are equipped with a powerful low-frequency emitter and a receiver with high directivity.
Combined with the FLASH dipping sonar, the SonoFlash sonobuoys will enable an airborne platform to search for the presence of submarines over a greater range, and offer greater responsiveness to the evasive manoeuvres of these platforms.
The high-performance communication systems of the SonoFlash enable all surface ships and aircraft, as well as acoustic support centres equipped with a sonobuoy processing system, to receive the data collected by the buoy.
‘Baltic Sentry’ demonstrates NATO MCM core role in countering CUI threats
NATO mine countermeasures (MCM) ships and capabilities make a core contribution to deterring threats to Critical Undersea Infrastructure (CUI) and building wider maritime security, MCM operators participating in NATO’s ‘Baltic Sentry’ activity told Naval News.
As a multi-domain activity, ‘Baltic Sentry’ will deter CUI threats by enhancing surveillance capacity and effect from seabed to space. In this operational context, with the surveillance coverage focused on non-routine shipping activity on the sea’s surface and change detection around CUI on the seabed, the MCM component offers added value.
French Navy Receives First Marine Mine-Hunter Drone
The French Navy has received its first mine warfare surface drone as part of the Future Mine Countermeasures System (SLAMF) program.
The drone includes a towed sonar connected to a portable operations center located in Brest, the country’s second-largest military port.
The Thales towed sonar reportedly features a multi-aspect synthetic aperture to reduce false positives.
As part of the program, France is buying eight extended versions of A18-M Autonomous Underwater Vehicles from Exail, which will be integrated with the SAMDIS 600 sonar from Thales.
“Thales’s new compact SAMDIS sonar is optimised for the detection of all naval mine threats, down to deeper waters,” according to Thales.
“Featuring a unique advanced multi-view capability, it captures images from multiple angles in a single pass.
Integrated with the Mi-MAP sonar data analysis software and Artificial Intelligence-driven algorithms, the SAMDIS 600 achieves exceptionally high detection and classification probabilities, delivering superior performance, which increases operational tempo and efficiency. Read More …
Underwater Mapping in Low-Visibility Lakes
VRT specializes in 3D survey solutions and the use of 3D data through multibeam sonar, laser, and drone inspections. The company conducts high-resolution structural inspections for various applications, including bridges, ports, pipelines, oil terminals, offshore wind farms, and hydro-power plants.
VRT utilizes multibeam sonar for subsurface inspections and laser scanners and photogrammetry for above-surface structures. Operating in harsh GNSS environments, VRT required a reliable solution to ensure accurate positioning and orientation during underwater inspections.
VRT partnered with Trimble Applanix to develop an optimal solution. The company operates two survey vessels equipped with Applanix POS MV to deliver precise position and orientation data. Read More …
Norbit’s new WBMS X Multibeam Sonar
Norbit Subsea introduces the WBMS X, the latest addition to its multibeam sonar family, an ultra-compact system designed with flexibility in mind.
WBMS X can be customized to fit any operational environment. WBMS X standard bundles come with integrated Applanix or SBG GNSS/INS, but you may choose a non-integrated version for applications such as ROV.
Need extra beams for data density? Upgrade to 1024 True Beams. Need even more data density? Add Dual Swath. Need active stabilization for dynamic conditions? Add Pitch and Yaw Stabilization.
Key attributes of the new system include:
- Ultra-compact, high-resolution design
- Curved array receiver for enhanced performance
- Optional tightly integrated GNSS/INS
- Active roll, pitch, and yaw stabilization for high vessel motion environments
- Dual Swath for efficient data collection
- Easy and quick mobilization, regardless of location.
80 years sunk: Another Beaufort bomber traced
Several Bristol Beaufort bomber wrecks of the Royal Australian Air Force downed in World War Two have been located under water in recent years, but the latest has been discovered by chance in the Timor Sea off Darwin, capital of Australia’s Northern Territory.
The twin-engined aircraft A9-497 was known to have ditched during a 1944 mission, but all four of the crew had survived their emergency landing and been rescued the following day, according to the Australian Defence Force (ADF).
The other 2020s discoveries were A9-186, found in 2020 and A9-374 in late 2023, both off Gasmata in Papua New Guinea. Read More …
Royal Navy moves a step closer to deploying autonomous mine-hunting tech on front-line ops
The Royal Navy has taken a step closer to deploying autonomous mine-hunting technology on front-line operations after a successful trial with an autonomous boat in Scotland.
As disclosed, the trial was conducted in the Firth of Clyde in Scotland, and the vessel Apollo, a small uncrewed boat equipped with a mine-hunting kit, was launched from SD Northern River, a Defence Marine Services’ ship.
The goal was to prove that the boat could be used from a commercial vessel, which could be an option in some operational scenarios.
Ultimately, the successful trial in a challenging environment means the Royal Navy will now take full delivery of Apollo once final upgrades are fitted by Thales, having so far been used as a concept demonstrator over the last three years.
Germany deploys ‘Blue Whale’ underwater drone to combat Russia in the Baltic Sea
Autonomous submarine, produced by an Israeli defence firm, will carry out deep sea surveillance to detect and pursue suspicious vessels.
Germany has deployed an underwater stealth drone named “Blue Whale” to patrol the Baltic Sea in its latest attempt to confront Russian and Chinese saboteurs.
As tensions rise over the cutting of undersea cables in the Baltic region, the German navy has test launched the autonomous submarine to carry out deep sea surveillance.
The drone, produced by the Israeli defence firm Elta, can also be used to detect and pursue suspicious vessels, and to spot mines. Read More …
ELAC secures €16.4m for Italian Navy sonar systems
This development is part of a broader agreement involving the delivery of sonar systems for Italy’s new submarine programme.
Initially, in 2021, ELAC SONAR was contracted by Leonardo for more than €49m to supply sonar systems for two U212 Near Future Submarines (NFS).
These are being produced by Fincantieri for the Italian Navy under the management of Organization for Joint Armament Cooperation (OCCAR).
The recent contract modification raises the total agreement value to upwards of €100m, now encompassing sonar systems for four submarines.
The U212 NFS Program involves the development, production, and in-service support of four submarines, alongside advancements in new technologies, a ten-year support plan, and a new Training Centre. Read More …
Exail marks milestone with first sale of DriX O-16 USV
Exail has achieved a significant milestone with the sale of its first DriX O-16, a transoceanic uncrewed surface vessel (USV). This advanced maritime asset, designed for long-range operations, has been acquired by a civil-sector customer in the Indo-Pacific region, reflecting growing confidence in autonomous maritime solutions.
Equipped with cutting-edge sensors, including a full-depth multibeam echosounder, the DriX O-16 delivers high-precision data collection for hydrographic, geophysical, and environmental missions. Its capability to deploy Autonomous Underwater Vehicles (AUVs) and Remotely Operated Vehicles (ROVs) further enhances its versatility, making it a valuable tool for a wide range of operations. Read More …
U.S. Navy joins NATO allies for mine countermeasures exercise in the Black Sea
Under Commander Task Force (CTF) 68, the U.S. Navy’s Explosive Ordnance Disposal Mobile Unit (EODMU) 8 participated in Exercise Poseidon from 31 October to 10 November 2024 in Burgas, Bulgaria. The exercise, led by Bulgaria, Romania, and Türkiye, focused on enhancing mine countermeasures (MCM) capabilities and interoperability among NATO Allies in the Black Sea region.
The exercise marked the third activation of the Black Sea MCM Task Group since its formation. Türkiye held the initial command, with Bulgaria set to take over leadership on 2 January 2025. Task group liaison officers shared insights on regional de-mining efforts and discussed NATO’s role in future operations.
Floating mines remain a significant threat in the Black Sea, with over 120 mines discovered since March 2022, the majority near Ukraine. “Advancing MCM interoperability in this region is crucial at a time of unprecedented risk from floating mines as a result of Russia’s invasion of Ukraine,” Wheat stated.
CTF 68, headquartered in Rota, Spain, oversees U.S. Navy Expeditionary Combat Forces in Europe and Africa. These forces operate in remote and austere environments, bridging the gap between sea and shore. The U.S. Sixth Fleet, based in Naples, Italy, conducts joint and naval operations to promote security and stability in Europe and Africa. Read More ….