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Image Not Available for Barra SSQ - 801 Sonobuoy used for submarine detection tracking and identification
Barra SSQ - 801 Sonobuoy used for submarine detection tracking and identification
Image Not Available for Barra SSQ - 801 Sonobuoy used for submarine detection tracking and identification

Barra SSQ - 801 Sonobuoy used for submarine detection tracking and identification

Maker
Date1981 - 1991
Object number00017130
NameSonobuoy
MediumMetal, plastic
DimensionsOverall: 920 x 129 mm, 9.2 kg
ClassificationsVessels and fittings
Credit LineANMM Collection Gift from Sonobuoys Australia
HistoryJane's Underwater Warfare Systems 1998/1999 AN/SSQ-801 B Barra sonobuoy Type: passive directional sonobuoy The new Barra sonobuoy design is the end result of two years development by GEC Marconi (now Thomson Marconi) and RAAF and RAN. The complexity and cost of the 'AN/SSQ-801 A' prohibited extensive improvement of performance. It was in service with the RAN since 1981. The B version has been in service since December 1996. It was designed for rapid and accurate localisation of submarine targets. The buoys performance is achieved by beam-forming the output of 25 hydrophones in a horizontal plan array which provides a highly selective steered gain in the direction of the targets, and suppression of noise interference. All hydrophone and compass data is transmitted by a FSK(frequency shift keying) VHF transmitter. Can be launched from fixed wing aircraft or helicopters. A parachute is automatically deployed to slow down the decent and stabilise the trajectory. Upon water entry the depth selection mechanism is activated, the parachute jettisoned and the unit automatically deploys. Fully operational within 65 second softwater impact. Five hours from water impact, the unit automatically scuttles. The RF transmits when it surfaces.