LEARNING OBJECTIVES: Identify applications, limitations, and assumptions of the SSP program. Interpret SSP module outputs.

The SSP generator module computes a sound speed profile by applying Wilsons equation for ocean sound speed to a merged depth/temperature/salinity profile. This creates a sound speed profile that represents local oceanic conditions. The output generated by the SSP generator module is a sound speed vs. depth profile from the sea surface to the ocean bottom, which is essential in making accurate sensor range predictions.

The SSP module yields tactically useful information when a basic knowledge of underwater acoustics is applied to the products. This information can be used to make decisions regarding sensor depth settings, optimum frequency bands for search, and buoy pattern. By examining the sound speed profile and other module output, the experienced ASW technician can learn a great deal about available acoustic transmission paths and sensor performance.

The optimum frequency for detection in the sonic layer may be determined from the sonic layer cutoff frequency calculated by SSP. The presence, quality, and accessibility of a sound channel to available sensors can be identified from the generated sound speed profile. CZs may exist where the sound speed at the bottom exceeds the sound speed at the source depth, providing there is an experienced analyst with a means to estimate CZ range and width from the shape of the sound speed profile.

The restrictions as well as the principles taken for granted in using the SSP product areas follows:

. SSP allows the operator to review and correct manual input. This prevents aborting runs due to operator-input errors.

. In deep-water areas, on-scene bathythermograph (BT) data that do not extend below 200 m should be used with caution.

l Where no historical profile data are available, operator entry of surface-to-bottom depth/ temperature/salinity sound speed values is required.

The SSP module provides the operator with a sound speed profile that is representative of local oceanic conditions. This module also provides a link between environmental variability and sonar performance. An on-scene BT and a historical depth/temperature/salinity profile are used to compute the sound speed profile and related data.

The SSP merging routine combines BT data with a historical profile to form a surface-to-bottom temperature/salinity profile. The resulting merged profile consists of the BT data in the upper portion and the historical profile, modified by the merge, in the lower portion. The lower portion extends from the first depth value below the available BT data to the bottom depth. Output from this program is classified and should be labeled as required.

The first portion of this chapter was devoted to computer aids generated by the TESS 3 configuration. Now lets look at the BT collective product.

BATHYTHERMOGRAPH COLLECTIVE PRODUCT

LEARNING OBJECTIVES Identify applications, limitations, and assumptions of the bathythermograph collective product.

FLENUMMETOCCEN is capable of providing synoptic (real-time) and historical bathythermograph (BATHY) observation collectives for a specified area and timeframe. Pre-1985 BATHYs are stored in the Master Oceanographic Observation Data Set (MOODS) with over 4.6 million observations. More recent BATHYs, which have not yet been added to the MOODS data base are stored in a separate archive in a format called 4D. The last 12 hours of BATHYs are stored on the operational computers. Output from this program is classified and should be labeled as required.

The BATHY collective product provides a convenient means for an activity or unit to retrieve historical data and/or receive synoptic data for a specific area/time period. The product can be used for onboard prediction systems or for exercise planning/ reconstruction.

The synoptic BATHY collective is a simple and easily transmittable product that provides detailed temperature/depth data.

The synoptic or real-time BATHY collectives are transmitted in the raw JJXX format, not passing through quality control procedures as do those that are extracted from the historical data base.

Now lets look at the Mad Operational Effectiveness (MOE) charts, which are discussed in more detail in Environmental Effects on Weapons Systems and Naval Warfare (U), (S)RP1.

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