OVERVIEW: Mechanical Cable Mine Sweeps are naval mine countermeasure systems designed to detect and cut moored mines using towed cables equipped with cutting devices.

GENERAL DESCRIPTION: Mechanical cable mine sweeps use one or more heavy steel cables towed behind a ship or mine countermeasure vessel. These cables are rigged with cutters or serrated edges to sever the anchoring cables of moored mines, causing them to float to the surface for disposal. This type of sweep is effective against moored contact and influence mines. Mechanical sweeps are among the earliest and simplest forms of mine countermeasures, often used in combination with acoustic or magnetic sweeps to counter various mine types.

ROLE SUMMARY:
Category: Mine Countermeasures / Mechanical Sweep
Primary Use: Cutting moored mine anchor cables to neutralize threats
Function: Towed cable with cutters severs mine mooring lines
Platform: Deployed by mine countermeasure vessels and specialized naval ships

See Specific information under [Sensors/EW] and [Properties] sections.

SOURCE:
Naval Mine Warfare Manuals
Defense Industry Reports