OVERVIEW: Acoustic influence mine sweeps are naval systems designed to safely trigger underwater mines by replicating the acoustic signatures of ship propulsion systems. They are used to clear mined sea lanes and protect friendly vessels.

GENERAL DESCRIPTION: These systems emit controlled underwater acoustic signals that simulate the noise produced by ships, such as cavitation, shaft rotation, or diesel/gas turbine signatures. They are towed behind mine countermeasure vessels or deployed from unmanned surface craft, creating deceptive target signatures to activate and neutralize acoustic mines at safe distances. Acoustic influence sweeps are often used in combination with magnetic or pressure influence sweeps to defeat multi-influence mine types. Systems may be modular, with adjustable frequency ranges and amplitude profiles to simulate different classes of vessels, from small boats to large combatants.

ROLE SUMMARY:
Category: Mine Countermeasure / Influence Sweep
Primary Use: Neutralization of acoustic-triggered naval mines
Function: Emission of synthetic ship noise to simulate targets
Platform: MCM vessels, unmanned surface vessels (USVs), auxiliary craft
Export: Used by NATO and allied navies in mine-clearance operations
Integration: Often deployed alongside magnetic and pressure sweep systems

Type: Towed or self-propelled acoustic emitter

See Specific information under [Sensors/EW] section.

SOURCE:
Naval Technology – MCM Systems Overview
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Acoustic_mine