By
LCDR Andrew Stackpool
ADI
Limited has handed over in Adelaide the first of 16 new generation
acoustic minesweeps ordered by the Royal Australian Navy.
The Australian Acoustic Generator (AAG) is a water driven, turbine
powered sweep which can be programmed to emulate the acoustic
signatures of specific classes of ships.
Developed by ADI in conjunction with the South Australian company,
Resonance Technology and DSTO, the AAG reflects Australia’s
ability to design and manufacture world leading mine countermeasures
systems.
The RAN and the Polish Navy purchased the first generation AAG
some three years ago. ADI made enhancements to the generator following
a test and evaluation program by the RAN, and additional orders
followed earlier this year.
Compared to older technology noise generators, the AAG provides
a stable acoustic line structure, increased towing speed range
and an acoustic spectrum which can be programmed to emulate the
acoustic signature of a particular class of ship.
All of these features are required to defeat modern mines equipped
with sophisticated sensors and computerised signal processing
capabilities.
Eight countries including Denmark, Japan and the United States
have bought the system.
