Israel’s DSIT Solutions Unveils 'SeaShield' Underwater Surveillance System at Euronaval 2024
At the bustling naval exhibition Euronaval 2024 in Paris, DSIT Solutions, a subsidiary of Rafael Advanced Defense Systems, presented its groundbreaking coastal surveillance sonar: the SeaShield™. It is a sophisticated yet cost-effective system that expands access to long-range submarine detection capabilities, previously limited to global superpowers. Amir Alon, Vice-President of Marketing and Business Development at DSIT, emphasized that SeaShield addresses the affordability gap, offering countries the ability to guard against underwater threats on par with advanced navies.
The SeaShield stands out as a highly adaptable system. It is not designed as a one-size-fits-all solution but is tailored to match the unique environmental and threat conditions of each client. Whether deployed in the shallow Baltic waters, the Mediterranean Sea, or other maritime arenas, SeaShield uses customizable transducers and frequency tuning to optimize detection. This flexibility makes it effective in tracking a variety of underwater targets, from traditional submarines to unmanned underwater vehicles (UUVs) and swimmer delivery systems (SDVs).
The system's structure comprises two horizontal receive arrays, each stretching roughly 40 meters, positioned to cover a 240-degree detection arc. At their intersection, a vertical transmit array, three meters tall and one meter wide, emits high-power acoustic signals. Interestingly, DSIT has moved power amplifiers and other crucial electronics onshore to ease maintenance. Underwater, acoustic pulses are transmitted through cables, enabling the system to operate seamlessly while minimizing time and cost spent on servicing submerged components.
SeaShield can switch between passive and active detection modes. Its passive arrays analyze signals using techniques like DEMON (Detection of Envelope Modulation on Noise) and narrowband analysis. When active, the sonar assesses targets based on factors like Doppler shift and size. Advanced algorithms, some incorporating artificial intelligence, assist operators in making precise threat classifications. These algorithms also use machine learning to improve performance continually, adapting to environmental changes and even recognizing local marine life patterns.
Moreover, SeaShield's modular design allows integration with other DSIT offerings, creating a comprehensive multi-layered underwater defense system. Smaller installations like the AquaShield Diver Detection System, which covers ranges of up to 1 kilometer, or the Long-Range AquaShield, effective at up to 5 kilometers against SDVs and small subs, can complement the SeaShield’s reach of over 50 kilometers. DSIT has indicated that, in real-world tests, the system has achieved even greater detection ranges than officially stated.
Beyond threat detection, SeaShield provides other strategic advantages. Its sonar "pings" can be used to guide friendly submarines precisely or even monitor seabed activity—a growing area of interest for governments worldwide. Alon describes SeaShield as a deterrence tool, as the unpredictability of its active emissions fosters uncertainty among adversaries.
From a strategic standpoint, the introduction of SeaShield has the potential to reduce the reliance on traditional anti-submarine warfare resources, such as ships and aircraft, saving costs over time. DSIT recommends deploying the system at a depth of about 30 meters to facilitate straightforward maintenance, even for divers using standard equipment. With global interest increasing, and at least one client already onboard, DSIT Solutions aims to revolutionize coastal underwater surveillance.
SeaShield's debut at Euronaval 2024 marks a significant leap forward in democratizing advanced sonar technology and bolstering maritime security across regions.
For further details on the system's technical specifications, you can explore DSIT Solutions’ official release or additional naval technology platforms.
