Author : K. W. Lackie
Publisher :
Page : pages
File Size : 21,80 MB
Release : 1997
Category : Anti-submarine warfare
ISBN :
Underwater acoustics remains the principal means to detect and locate submarines and other underwater objects. For this reason, the Office of Naval Research has sponsored a vigorous research program in underwater acoustics and related fields at both academic institutions and Navy in house organizations for many years. Unfortunately, no other Federal Government funding agency sponsors research in this area, and as a result the health, strength, and growth of the field in the US depends entirely on the ONR program. Interviews of senior U.S. acoustician and visits to a number of major institutions indicate that recent reductions in Naval research budgets have caused a significant decline in the vitality of the ocean acoustics research community in the U.S., especially in its capability to train graduate students in at sea experimental techniques and maintain its sea going infrastructure. Although a number of initiatives are identified that would improve the situation, only an increase in financial support will completely solve the problem. The current level of Federal funding is inadequate to support long-term Navy requirements for acoustician, though it may be adequate for the current environment of reduced budgets and priorities. The strength of this field, virtually the only one entrusted entirely to ONR's care, is not being sustained.