How to remain in contact with a submerged submarine via a Signal Underwater Sound (SUS) MK 84 MOD 0 sonobuoy is the subject of this 1960s training film prepared for Naval Air Systems Command. The non-explosive, aircraft-to-submarine communications device provides one-way acoustic communications. It is explained starting at mark 01:00 how the device is launched from an aircraft and can transmit one of four independent codes, each representing a pre-assigned command message. The camera pans a MK 84 sonobuoy as the narrator provides details on each of the device’s three sections. Aided by diagrams, the film at mark 02:30 explains how the device works in the water followed by scenes of a SUS being constructed (mark 03:14) and tested. Devices are shown being carefully packed in ammunition containers before being transferred to an aircraft, where the film provides details on how to open each packaged device. We learn how to use a screwdriver to properly set a code for each device (mark 05:30) and hear examples of each sound at mark 06:15. The film continues with explanations of what not to do with a device (such as taking it apart or exposing it to moisture prior to use) before watching their launch from an aircraft (mark 08:30). Accompanying diagrams further explains how communication with a submarine works. At mark 10:20 we see scenes of submarine crews receiving the signal before the film quickly reviews the key points that had been covered.
Sonobuoys enable Navy ASW forces to detect, track, and pinpoint potentially hostile submarines operating in the open ocean that could be threats to Navy carrier battle groups or other forces. Information from these systems can help enable precision attacks with air-launched torpedoes. A sonobuoy (a portmanteau of sonar and buoy) is a relatively small buoy (typically 13 cm or 5 in, in diameter and 91 cm or 3 ft long) expendable sonar system that is dropped/ejected from aircraft or ships conducting anti-submarine warfare or underwater acoustic research.
We encourage viewers to add comments and, especially, to provide additional information about our videos by adding a comment! See something interesting? Tell people what it is and what they can see by writing something for example: “01:00:12:00 — President Roosevelt is seen meeting with Winston Churchill at the Quebec Conference.”
This film is part of the Periscope Film LLC archive, one of the largest historic military, transportation, and aviation stock footage collections in the USA. Entirely film backed, this material is available for licensing in 24p HD, 2k and 4k. For more information visit http://www.PeriscopeFilm.com
