CALLISTO - Modular Sensor Float for Deep Submerged Submarine Operations

摘要

The CALLISTO system developed by Gabler Maschinenbau enables submarines to communicate from a deep submerged position. This is done by releasing an optimally streamlined float from a hoistable mast, so that it ascends to the water surface on the end of a towing cable. The high-power, multi-band antenna is integrated in the float and enables the submarine to serve the following frequencies: UHF/VHF-LOS, UHF-SATCOM, HF reception, and IFF and GPS. This allows the submarine to be fully integrated into Network Centric Operations without the need to leave its deep submerged position. The buoyant body itself can be released and retrieved repeatedly for different operations. CALLISTO can be integrated in different locations in the submarine: In the upper deck, in a mounting system in the sail, or as a hoistable mast. Thereby, this system is not only applicable for new-construction submarine designs, but also in case of refit/modernisation of in-service submarines. The CALLISTO float can be equipped with an extremely wide range of different sensors. In addition to the aforementioned communications means, the float can also be fitted with options such as radar early warning device and/or optronic systems. This communications system now forms an integral part of German Navy's two Type U212A Batch 2 submarines. After successful integration and technical acceptance, the next step is to test CALLISTO in a series of deep water trials that will be accomplished during the first half of 2015.