What are Sonobuoys?

About Sonobuoys:

• Sonobuoys are small, expendable devices used in underwater acoustics and sonar systems to detect and analyze sound in the ocean, particularly for tracking submarines and other underwater objects.
• Deployment:
  • Sonobuoys are deployed by dropping them into the ocean from aircraft or launching them from ships or submarines.
  • They sink to a predetermined depth and begin listening for acoustic signals, helping pin-point potential submarine threats.
  • Multiple sonobuoys can be deployed in a pattern to determine the exact location of a target.
• There are three types of sonobuoys:
  • Passive Sonobuoys quietly listen for and record sounds without emitting any signals. It uses a hydrophone to listen for sound energy from a target.
  • Active Sonobuoys emit a sound pulse and analyze the return signals (echoes) to detect and locate targets. It uses a transducer to send an acoustic signal.
  • Special Purpose buoys provide information about the environment, such as water temperature, ambient noise level, etc.
• Components: A typical sonobuoy consists of a cylindrical or spherical buoyant housing, sensors for detecting acoustic signals, a battery or power source, and a radio transmitter or other communication system to relay data to the host platform (e.g., aircraft or ship).
• Other Applications: In addition to anti-submarine warfare, they are used for scientific research and environmental studies, including studying the behavior of whales and other marine creatures.

Key Facts about MQ-9B Sea Guardian:

• It is a variant of the MQ-9 "Reaper", an unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV)capable of remotely controlled or autonomous flight operations.
• These are high-altitude long-endurance drones armed with strike missiles which can take out enemy targets with high accuracy.
• It was developed by General Atomics Aeronautical Systems (GA-ASI), primarily for the US Military.
• The Indian Navy has been operating the MQ-9B Sea Guardian since 2020.
• Features:
  • It can carry up to 5,670 kg and has a fuel capacity of 2,721 kg.
  • The drone can operate at over 40,000 feet.
  • The Predator also has a maximum endurance of 40 hours, making it useful for long-hour surveillance.
  • It is also capable of automatic take-offs and landings.
  • It can safely integrate into civil airspace, enabling joint forces and civil authorities to deliver real-time situational awareness anywhere in the maritime domain -- day or night.