The US DCL (Detection Classification and Localisation) demonstrator program is aimed at proving that an active torpedo detection system is able to resolve a salvo of torpedoes with sufficient time and accuracy that an anti-torpedo

torpedo A modern torpedo is an underwater ranged weapon launched above or below the water surface, self-propelled towards a target, and with an explosive warhead designed to detonate either on contact with or in proximity to the target. Historically, su ...

may be fired back to hit and destroy the threat.

Overview

The DCL systems consist of an active source emitter which sends high-frequency pings into the water. Reflections from in-water objects are received by a towed array tuned to those frequencies. By processing the reflections it is possible to determine whether objects are torpedoes, or non-threat objects. The system is also combined with a passive acoustic towed array specifically designed for torpedo detection. The passive acoustic array is able to analyse the structured sound emanating from a torpedo and thereby classify the weapon type and mode of operation. Two teams are currently building alternative DCL demonstration systems, the first to test was

Ultra Electronics Ultra Electronics Holdings is a British defence and security company. It was listed on the London Stock Exchange and was a constituent of the FTSE 250 Index until it was acquired by Cobham, which is itself owned by Advent International. Histo ...

who in 2006 successfully resolved a salvo of torpedoes. The second company APC has yet to undergo tests. The aim of the programme is to resolve threats sufficiently well that an anti-torpedo torpedo may be fired at the threat to neutralise it (a hard-kill solution). This differs from the UK S2170 Surface Ship Torpedo Defence solution which utilises soft-kill. {{navy-stub DCL DCL