The United States Navy

Shallow Water Intermediate Search System

Description: Shallow water search sonar.

Features: The Shallow Water Intermediate Search System (SWISS) is a dual-frequency towed side-scan sonar system mounted inside a torpedo shaped tow body. The sonar is towed behind a vessel at slow speeds, generally from one to five knots. Sonar signals are processed producing both an analog and digital display of features on the ocean bottom. Trained operators interpret these displays to identify potential targets. The low frequency is generally used for primary searching and the higher frequency can give an extremely fine grain trace of bottom features and contacts. This allows for detailed analysis of the contacts.

Point of Contact:
Naval Sea Systems Command
Public Affairs Office
Naval Sea Systems Command
Washington, D.C. 20362

General Characteristics

Primary Function: Ocean bottom object location
Length: 3 ft (0.9144 m)
Diameter: 6 in (15.24 cm)
Maximum Operating Depth: 5,000 ft (1,524 m)
Weight: Less than 50 lbs (>22.68 kg)


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