OVERVIEW: The Towed torpedo decoy is a naval defensive countermeasure designed to protect surface vessels by towing an acoustic and electronic decoy behind the ship to lure and confuse incoming torpedoes.

DETAILS: This system consists of a robust towed body deployed on a cable, which emits acoustic signatures and noise mimicking the host ship’s propeller cavitation and machinery sounds. By simulating the vessel’s acoustic profile at a distance behind the ship, it diverts torpedoes away from the actual hull, increasing survivability. The decoy’s maneuverability and acoustic output are optimized to defeat both passive and active homing torpedoes. Typically integrated with shipboard sonar and electronic warfare suites, it provides continuous protection during high-threat environments.

ROLE SUMMARY:
Category: Towed Naval Torpedo Decoy
Primary Use: Acoustic deception to mislead incoming torpedoes
Function: Emission of simulated ship acoustic signatures via a towed body
Strong Against: Passive and active acoustic homing torpedoes
Weak Against: Advanced multi-sensor torpedoes and counter-countermeasure tactics
Platform: Soviet and Russian surface combatants equipped with towed decoy launchers
Integration: Linked to ship sonar, electronic warfare, and defense management systems

SOURCE:
Janes Naval Defense Systems
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Torpedo_decoy#Towed_decoys