NATO to Upgrade Multi-beam Sonar
L-3 Klein Associates, Inc. (L-3 Klein, USA) has received an award from the U.S. Naval Oceanographic Office (NAVO) for seven life-cycle kits to upgrade existing L-3 Klein System 5000 sonar systems to the advanced Klein S5900 multi-beam side scan sonar.
The S5900 system will be deployed from six T-AGS 60-class oceanographic survey ships that are designed and constructed to provide multi-purpose oceanographic capabilities in deep ocean areas and shallow coastal waters around the world. The life-cycle upgrade to the S5900 system was awarded in support of NAVO’s emerging requirements for higher-resolution data collection in mine warfare, homeland defense and other fleet operations that demand high-resolution target detection and bottom-mapping capabilities.
The S5900 side scan sonar uses high-frequency commercial-off-the-shelf (COTS) multi-beam technology to provide high-resolution imaging with 100% bottom coverage while towed at speeds of 2 to 12 knots. The S5900 tow fish is depth-rated to 750 metres and can operate with copper and/or fiber-optic tow cables. Interferometric bathymetry is included in the upgrade, providing simultaneous bathymetry and side scan data collection capabilities. Articulated depressor wings allow for remote control of depressive force as well as enhanced towing stability. Acoustic positioning systems are electronically and mechanically integrated into each S5900 tow fish. A gap filler sonar, for full coverage in the nadir region, is also available with the S5900 system.
