Sonobuoy

AN/SSQ-53H

The SSQ‑53H is a NATO A‑size sonobuoy manufactured for the U.S. Navy to exact specifications. Its digital, multi‑functional design combines passive directional capability with a calibrated wide‑band omni, and it maintains traditional analog telemetry so it still works with platforms flying previous‑generation buoys.

Clear audio in loud water

Floating‑point acoustic processing and high dynamic range hold the picture together in high ambient noise and alongside multi‑static active sources. Electronic Function Select configures the buoy before launch, and Command Function Select adjusts RF channel, life, sensor and AGC level once it is in the water.

KEY FEATURES

  • 27-305 meters (90 to 1000 ft)
  • 97-channel RF Transmitter
  • Acoustic Sensors (CSO, CO, XCO, DIFAR)

ENHANCED FEATURES

  • Clear Audio (improved acoustic fidelity)
  • Improved RF performance with Spur Free High Dynamic Range, Carrier Deviation Fidelity and Spectral Power Control
  • CSO (Constant Shallow Omni) with reduced G-sensitivity at a depth of 45 ft (13.7 m)
  • Floating-point acoustic processing with improved performance and highly accurate data
  • High Dynamic Range creating enhanced performance in high ambient noise environments or for use with multi-static active sources
  • GPS capable and upon activation provides location reporting
  • Calibrated Omni (CO) co-located with the DIFAR sensor to provide acoustic information at the selected depth at two bandwidths: 20kHz (CO) or 40kHz (XCO)
  • LiFeS2 Battery, reliable, safe and fully certified
  • Multiple launch options: fixed-wing, rotary-wing aircraft and surface vessels
  • Temperature and depth sensing
  • EFS (Electronic Function Select), configurable
  • CFS (Command Function Select), commandable: RF Channel, Life, Sensor, AGC Level
AN/SSQ-53H sonobuoy
Specifications

Built for Fidelity

Physical Characteristics

Weight

Sonobuoy Launch Container

8.98 kg (19.8 lbs)

LAU-126/A

Performance Data

RF Command Receiver

RF Transmitter Power Output

RF Transmitter Operating Frequency

Sensors/Audio Frequencies

Sensor Temperature Range

Depth Sensor

Operating Depth

EFS Selection

Launch Altitude

Launch Speed

Shelf Life

UHF – Single Channel

1 W minimum

97 Channel Selectable

CSO, CO, DIFAR, XCO

3 to 45°C (±1°C)

1000 ft (± 23 ft)

27-305 meters (90-1000 ft)

RF, Life, Depth, Sensor, and AGC

12 to 9144 meters (40 to 30000 ft)

0 to 370 KIAS

5 years in sealed container

Downloads

Documentation and Support

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