Aselsan’s CEO, Mr Ahmet AKYOL, stated on his X (ex-Twitter) account that DÜFAS will enhance the Turkish Navy’s capabilities to detect submarines and torpedoes from long ranges:
“We gained the ability to detect submarines before they engage our surface ships. DÜFAS, the first towed array sonar system produced with national capabilities, broadcasts acoustic signals underwater.”
Ahmet AKYOL, Aselsan’s CEO
AKYOL also emphasized the sonar’s multi-static capabilities, saying “DÜFAS collects the reflections of the transmitted signal from the targets through passive sonar to create an underwater tactical picture. When it detects a torpedo threat, it can eliminate the risk by activating countermeasure equipment.“
According to Aselsan, the DÜFAS System stands as a pinnacle of innovation, meticulously crafted to address the exacting needs of the Turkish Naval Forces Command. Developed domestically under the Turkish Defence Agency (SSB), DÜFAS represents a groundbreaking leap in maritime defense technology.
DÜFAS is a variable depth sonar (VDS) system, that integrates active and passive sonar capabilities. Its primary mission is to detect elusive underwater threats, particularly stealthy submarines, from staggering distances, thereby fortifying the defensive capabilities of surface platforms. The system also provides high-accuracy detection in large areas by using continuous active sonar capability.
In passive sonar mode, the system is used to detect threats such as torpedoes by listening to ambient noise. Unlike its counterparts, HIZIR Torpedo Countermeasure components can also be integrated into DÜFAS. The system recommends the most appropriate countermeasure tactics and evasive maneuvers to the user to eliminate torpedoes fired from enemy platforms. In this way, the system becomes a torpedo countermeasure system that incorporates the features of the HIZIR System in addition to its active sonar capability and can offer a complete solution. When a torpedo is detected, the system activates the countermeasure equipment, eliminating the threat and allowing safe escape.
Author’s comments
As submarine capabilities advance, Anti-Submarine Warfare (ASW) becomes increasingly challenging. Despite enhancements in surface and air reconnaissance sensors, the underwater realm remains largely obscure. Sonars remain the primary detection tool underwater, but their effectiveness can fluctuate daily depending on water conditions. The significance of towed sonars, submersible sonars, and sonar buoys grows, particularly when sound signal propagation favors submarines, such as in negative gradient water conditions. Furthermore, in positive gradient conditions, sonar signals can’t penetrate below the “layer depth,” creating safe havens for submarines.
In this context, the acquisition of DÜFAS represents a crucial enhancement to the Turkish Navy’s ASW capabilities. With the retirement of Knox-class frigates in 2012, similar systems were phased out of inventory.
DÜFAS will play a pivotal role in the multi-static sonar system, primarily by offering long-range detection capabilities. Modern submarines are highly capable and can accurately detect surface assets and fire torpedoes or guided missiles from considerable distances without needing to approach surface ships closely. DÜFAS serves as the extended arm of the multi-static sonar setup, forming a layered underwater surveillance network. Its integration with torpedo countermeasures is essential; upon detecting a torpedo threat, DÜFAS promptly engages the HIZIR system, affording ships precious time to evade the torpedo.
Originally intended for the TF-2000, DÜFAS’s testing on the Gabya-class frigate demonstrated its suitability for platforms like frigates and corvettes. The Turkish Navy can integrate this system into its frigates and corvettes as needed. Additionally, a miniature version of DÜFAS is under development for unmanned naval vehicles. Soon, we may witness mini DÜFAS systems integrated into various Unmanned Surface Vehicles (USVs).
