How Do Submarines Detect Other Submarines: Sound vs Periscopes

Submarines, these silent hunters of the deep, operate in a silent world where the oceans play a crucial role in their communications and navigation. But how do they detect and locate each other? They use sonar and periscopes, albeit with different applications and purposes. Let's explore these methods and understand their roles in submarine warfare and naval operations.

Submarine Detection Methods

Submarines often rely on sonar and periscopes for detecting other submarines. While a periscope serves a visual function, it is primarily used for surface observation or when a submarine surfaces briefly. Sonar, on the other hand, is the primary tool for detecting and locating subs below the surface.

Using Sonar

Submarines make extensive use of sonar, a technology that detects objects by emitting sounds and analyzing the echoes. This allows them to navigate, detect targets, and communicate with other subs.

Passive Sonar

One of the main methods submarines use is passive sonar. This involves listening for sounds produced by other subs, such as engine noises, propeller sounds, or even shell impacts. Passive sonar detects these sounds and provides the direction (bearing) from which they came. With sufficient time, the submarine can triangulate the position of the other sub, determining both the range and the location.

Active Sonar

Active sonar, in contrast, involves emitting a burst of sound waves and listening for the echoes. This method can provide precise information about the target, including its range and distance. However, active sonar can also reveal the location of the emitting submarine to the target, making it a risky approach. Submarines generally avoid using active sonar unless absolutely necessary.

Periscopes: A Visual Approach

A submarine’s periscope offers a visual escape into the world above. It is a long, thin tube with several mirrors that allow the submarine to observe the surface without breaking the water's surface. Modern periscopes are equipped with cameras and other technologies to enhance visibility and maintain covert operations.

Surface Observation

A submarine uses its periscope to observe the surface when it is on the surface or when it needs to come up to the surface for a short period. This is useful for gathering intelligence or simply looking around without revealing the submarine's position.

Possible Detection by Whales

It is a popular misconception that submarines detect other submarines through whale calls. While submarines do use sonar systems to detect objects, the idea of whales detecting submarines and alerting them is a far-fetched notion. Whales do not have the sophisticated sonar abilities of submarines.

Collision Hazards

Despite their advanced technologies, submarines are not immune to accidents. Since they rely on non-stop navigation systems, any error in the system or a momentary lapse can result in a collision, either with another submarine or with underwater obstacles like rocks. These collisions are often the result of human error or technical issues.

Naval Operations and Coordination

During naval operations, submarines use a combination of sonar and periscopes to coordinate with other vessels. For instance, they can transmit signals indicating their location and intentions, which can be detected by passive sonar arrays set up by other naval units.

Conclusion

Submarines have a range of detection and communication technologies at their disposal, from sonar to periscopes. While sonar is the primary tool for detecting and locating other submarines, periscopes are invaluable for visual monitoring and intelligence gathering. Understanding these methods can provide insight into the complex yet fascinating world of submarine warfare and naval operations.