Adding UAVs/UUV

Mike Abberton · 11-20-15, 10:26 AM

The Mk48 uses a chemical fuel for propulsion. I am not sure if it uses the propulsion system to power the electronics or if there is a supplemental battery. It's designed to go fast to catch subs and the on-board sonar systems are likely somewhat limited since it's going so fast that flow noise would limit passive sensors anyways.

A UUV would probably do better with an electric propulsion system and a longer loiter time (an hour or more). Because it's more useful as a passive listener rather than a pinger, it can't go very fast and be useful. An electric system would also provide more on-board power for the UUV's electronics.

Unfortunately, due to a lower energy density of battery systems and probably higher on-board power requirements, the range/speed of a UUV would likely be lower (maybe much lower) than a contemporary chemical-fueled torpedo.

Mike

11-20-15, 10:26 AM	#5
Mike Abberton Electrician's Mate Join Date: Jan 2011 Posts: 135 Downloads: 42 Uploads: 0	The Mk48 uses a chemical fuel for propulsion. I am not sure if it uses the propulsion system to power the electronics or if there is a supplemental battery. It's designed to go fast to catch subs and the on-board sonar systems are likely somewhat limited since it's going so fast that flow noise would limit passive sensors anyways. A UUV would probably do better with an electric propulsion system and a longer loiter time (an hour or more). Because it's more useful as a passive listener rather than a pinger, it can't go very fast and be useful. An electric system would also provide more on-board power for the UUV's electronics. Unfortunately, due to a lower energy density of battery systems and probably higher on-board power requirements, the range/speed of a UUV would likely be lower (maybe much lower) than a contemporary chemical-fueled torpedo. Mike