Acoustic improvements for USNS PATHFINDER (T-AGS 60) class oceanographic ships

Discusses ship acoustics and how it evolved in the USNS PATHFINDER (T-AGS 60) class ship acquisition program. During the initial ship delivery process for this program it was determined that the acoustic posture of these ships was inadequate to support the mission requirement of deep-water bottom mapping. A comprehensive investigation was conducted and problem areas were identified. This paper summarizes the findings of that investigation and subsequent ones to fully document the acoustic issues that were present on this new class of ships. Additionally, the modifications and improvements that were made to these hulls are addressed to share with the community the importance of vessel acoustic posture and how it relates to mission performance with respect to acoustics. The types of modifications addressed are: sonar fairing design, paint and hull conditions, propeller cavitation performance, hull appendages, bubble sweepdown and general acoustic requirements. Acoustic measurements and levels are provided as well as specific measures of system performance.