Scientists from the Harbin Engineering University in China have achieved a significant breakthrough by creating a high-power hydroacoustic system with a phased antenna grate that is so compact it can fit inside a shoebox.
This technological advancement allows for the installation of such systems not only on large warships and submarines but also on small unmanned submarines.
Amidst growing tensions between the United States and China, the latter has been increasing its deployment of marine assets. Last year, the total tonnage of ships launched by Chinese shipyards surpassed not only the United States but also all other countries in the world combined.
While the United States still outnumbers China in terms of total ships, China aims not only to close the gap quantitatively but also to technologically surpass American vessels. This includes introducing innovations like phased hydroacoustic antennas.
Unlike traditional Sonar systems, this technology comprises multiple transmitting and receiving blocks, enabling the generation of a more powerful and intense signal. Miniaturizing such systems is a crucial area of scientific research, in which Chinese scientists have achieved significant success. The system weighs only 15 kilograms and, as mentioned earlier, is no larger than a shoebox. Despite its small size, the equipment is capable of producing sound waves up to 238 decibels.
This technology has potential applications not only in the military realm for detecting and neutralizing enemy submarines by causing nausea and visual disorders in their crews but also in marine resource exploration. China plans to utilize phased hydroacoustic antennas for underwater research missions and mining in regions with limited terrestrial resources.
Despite the potential benefits, the long-term effects of high-frequency waves on marine flora, fauna, and humans remain unknown. Scientists have announced plans to conduct stress tests to ensure the stability of integrated circuits in such a compact format. However, further research is needed to understand the impact of these waves on organisms.