SEAFARER: Extremely Low Frequency Naval Communications System
Abstract
Ballistic missile submarines (SSBNs) and nuclear attack submarines (SSNs) cannot perform all of their missions effectively under current communications limitations. Existing communications systems require these submarines to approach the surface and deploy a submerged antenna in order to receive messages from land-based stations. This reduces their operational efficiency and increases their detectability. Modern nuclear-powered submarines are capable of operating at such greater depths and for much longer periods than in the past. Despite these capabilities, they are required to approach the surface at least every 12 hours to receive messages and instructions. SEAFARER (Surface ELF transmitting system For Addressing Remotely deployed Receivers), an extremely low frequency communications system designed for worldwide communications with submerged submarines, has been proposed as a supplement to current systems. SEAFARER can penetrate seawater to great depths, allowing communications with ballistic missile submarines while they remain at optimal operating depths and speeds. Critics of SEAFARER claim that the system is too vulnerable to nuclear attack, has too low a data transmission rate, and is too limited in capacity, and that its installation might present radiation hazards to onsite residents. For these and other reasons, system development of SEAFARER has been slow and no actual construction of the system has begun.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Jun 20, 1978
- Accession Number
- ADA477804
Entities
People
- Edmund J. Gannon
Organizations
- Library of Congress