OVERVIEW: Sonar systems on submarines provide short-range detection, tracking, and classification of underwater threats using both active sonar pulses and passive listening.

GENERAL DESCRIPTION: These sonar systems enable submarines to detect and engage nearby targets such as enemy submarines, torpedoes, and underwater obstacles. Operating primarily in the medium frequency (MF) band, they combine active sound transmissions with passive acoustic reception for flexible tactical awareness. Typically hull-mounted or mounted on retractable arrays, they support fire control solutions and close-range navigation. Their dual-mode capability allows stealthy passive detection or active ranging when necessary, crucial for submarine offensive and defensive operations in complex underwater environments.

ROLE SUMMARY:
Category: Hull-mounted active/passive attack sonar
Primary Use: Short-range underwater detection, tracking, and fire control
Function: Tactical submarine situational awareness and engagement
Platform: Submarines of various classes
Export: Used by NATO, allied, and many global submarine operators
Integration: Integrated with fire control systems, torpedo launchers, and navigation aids

Type: Active and passive sonar

See Specific information under [Sensors/EW] section.

SOURCE:
NATO ASW Doctrine and Technical Publications
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Active_sonar