The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) is advancing the underwater capabilities of the Indian Navy’s Kilo-class submarines with the introduction of the upgraded USHUS-2 sonar suite. Developed by the Naval Physical and Oceanographic Laboratory (NPOL), this cutting-edge system will replace the older USHUS sonars on the remaining three Kilo-class submarines.
Visual and Emotional Appeal
The upgrade to USHUS-2 signifies a major leap in the technological prowess of the Indian Navy. Imagine the enhanced stealth and precision of submarines equipped with this advanced sonar suite, allowing them to operate with greater effectiveness in complex underwater environments. This modernization reflects India’s commitment to maintaining a strategic edge in naval defense.
Key Moments
Upgrade Announcement: DRDO will enhance the sonar systems on the Indian Navy’s Kilo-class submarines with USHUS-2.Current Status: Five of the nine Kilo-class submarines are equipped with the older USHUS sonar system, while two have been retired or transferred.Submarines Affected: The upgrade will be applied to submarines S55, S57, and S59.Sonar Capabilities: USHUS-2 includes passive sonar, active sonar, intercept sonar, obstacle avoidance sonar, and underwater telephony.
Technical Insights
The USHUS-2 sonar suite represents a significant technological advancement over its predecessor. This new system includes a range of features designed to improve the detection, tracking, and classification of underwater objects. The suite’s comprehensive capabilities include:
Passive Sonar: Detects and tracks submarines by listening to their sound emissions.Active Sonar: Uses sound waves to detect and identify underwater objects.Intercept Sonar: Identifies and analyzes potential threats by intercepting acoustic signals.Obstacle Avoidance Sonar: Helps submarines navigate safely by detecting obstacles in their path.Underwater Telephony: Facilitates communication between submarines and other naval platforms.
Bharat Electronics is handling the production of the USHUS-2 suite, which is currently being installed on Indian Navy platforms. This upgrade is poised to enhance the Indian Navy’s anti-submarine warfare (ASW) capabilities, offering a substantial technological edge in detecting and countering submarine threats.
Important Points
Sonar System Upgrade: DRDO is upgrading the Kilo-class submarines with the advanced USHUS-2 sonar suite.Current Fleet Status: Out of nine Kilo-class submarines, five have the old USHUS system, and two have been retired or transferred.Submarines Receiving Upgrade: The upgrade will be applied to submarines S55, S57, and S59.Advanced Features: USHUS-2 includes passive sonar, active sonar, intercept sonar, obstacle avoidance sonar, and underwater telephony.Production and Installation: Bharat Electronics is producing the USHUS-2 suite, which is being installed on Indian Navy platforms.
Images : BEL India