From:	Robert Watkins robert.watkins@******.com
Subject:	magical effects for sea-going runners...
Date:	Thu, 18 Mar 1999 09:18:11 +1000

Marc Renouf writes:
> They deployed it in the '80's. It didn't work real well, and
> ultimately increased the overall radar cross-section of the mast, making
> the sub easier to detect when the mast was deployed (whoops). There have
> been numerous rumors that the newer generation of US attack subs will have
> a more refined system that works basically the same way.
> The problem, however, is that any direct action gives the sub
> away. Helicopters don't operate in a vaccuum, and subs are too slow to
> get away once they're spotted. If your helicopter just went down at X
> location, you can pretty much guarantee that that's a good place to start
> looking. Toss an ASROC that way, and watch the fun.

What about using it against ASW planes? They tend to work alone, and so
would be a valid target. OTH, detecting them from underwater would be hard
(though I guess if you heard sonobuoys being deployed, you could go up and
have a look...)

Granted, you still put your location on the map, but by the time anyone else
comes and has a look, you could be a long way away...

--
.sig deleted to conserve electrons. robert.watkins@******.com