Dubbed SonaBlow, RTSYS’ new underwater acoustic firing device has been designed to allow the clearance diver to get rid of the electric firing line, numerous operational benefits at stake.
Developed hand in hand with French navy’s divers, « the system consists of a surface communication module (SCM) to which a waterproof hydrophone is connected. The hydrophone transmits an acoustic command to the SonaBlow, which is equipped with an acoustic receiver and an energy source in order to fire two underwater electric detonators », Pierre-Alexandre Caux, Business Director at RTSYS explained.
The user is able to trigger several SonaBlow, blowing instantly up to around 20 naval mines thanks to the simultaneous triggering mode. Others modes are proposed, such as single, clock, consecutive or countdown ones. SonaBlow has a horizontal encrypted communication range of 2 km which can be more than doubled – up to 5 km – by deploying a positioning and relay beacon (PRB).
SonaBlow works at a maximum depth of 300 m and is designed to last for up to one week, while its surface communication module has an autonomy of up to 25 hours.
« This system, in contrast to timed detonations, allows for permanent control of the firing command » and « is particularly suitable for mine warfare operations and special forces », Caux added. SonaBlow allows the coordinated detonation of several mines simultaneously, something particularly useful when clearing a mine field ahead of an amphibious operation.
The project received fund through from the French MoD Defense Innovation Agency (AID) through the « RAPID » program, which aims to support dual innovation programs, Naval News learned. RT Sys is now focusing on launching the French Defense Procurement Agency (DGA) qualification process. Once completed, the solution would be marketable from 2024’s end.
Our video interview with RTSYS at DSEI 2023:
