Sean Leydon, Regional Manager at Asia Pacific for Forcys, discusses the issues that face modern warships and submarines alongside either at home or away, the degrees to which they have been targeted, and solutions to provide protection to both the warship and its crew.
Naval operations face increasingly sophisticated underwater threats, ranging from explosive hull attachments to advanced underwater vehicles. Historical incidents highlight maritime vulnerabilities, such as the sinking of the USS Card during the Vietnam conflict and a state-sponsored attack on commercial ships in Fujairah in 2019.
Sentinel Intruder Detection Sonar: A Technological Solution
Wavefront Systems’ Sentinel Intruder Detection Sonar (IDS) provides comprehensive maritime security by defending against multiple underwater threats. Professional divers using closed or open circuit breathing equipment pose significant risks to naval vessels. Swimmer Delivery Vehicles (SDVs) enable covert maritime infiltration, while Diver Propulsion Vehicles (DPVs) extend underwater mobility ranges. Unmanned Underwater Vehicles (UUVs) represent increasingly complex technological challenges for maritime defense systems.
Advanced Detection Methodology
Sentinel operates through four essential security phases:
Surveillance
The system continuously monitors underwater environments, providing real-time visual and acoustic intelligence about potential threats.
Detection
Using sophisticated algorithms, Sentinel precisely identifies potential intruders while filtering out false targets and marine life.
Tracking
The technology comprehensively analyzes target movement patterns, generating critical tactical information for security personnel.
Classification
Detailed threat characterization allows operators to understand the specific nature of underwater intrusions.
The system employs unique SInAPS technology, combining active and passive sonar processing. This approach enables sophisticated target tracking and differentiation between marine life and potential threats. Weighing just 32kg, Sentinel offers portable installation and a simple operational interface.
Technical Capabilities
Sentinel provides networked security configurations that can be rapidly deployed across naval vessels and critical infrastructure. Its intuitive graphical user interface allows operators to quickly assess and respond to underwater threats. The system’s adaptability ensures comprehensive protection in diverse maritime environments.
Global Deployment
Sentinel has been deployed globally, with over 200 systems installed worldwide. It operates across various maritime environments, protecting naval bases, military vessels, and critical national infrastructure.
As underwater threats from state actors continue to evolve, Sentinel represents a critical technological advancement in maritime security, offering unprecedented protection for naval assets.
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