OVERVIEW: The A/N 37U (AN/SLQ‑53) is a helicopter-towed mechanical cable-cutter mine sweep system introduced in 2000. It is designed to sever moored naval mine cables via cutter-equipped tow wires, enabling neutralization of explosive hazards in contested waters.

DETAILS: A/N 37U deploys from helicopters such as the MH‑53E Sea Dragon using a modular winch and depressor/otter assembly to maintain controlled depth. The sweep wire, stretched between port and starboard otters, carries inline cutter units (Mk 17 Mod 1) that mechanically slice through mine mooring cables. It operates at variable depths to target mines anchored at different levels, complementing magnetic and acoustic sweep systems. Towed at safe stand-off distance, it enables helicopter-based mine countermeasure operations in deeper waters.

FUNCTION: During operations, the helicopter tows the A/N 37U gear at a set altitude and speed, maintaining sweep wire depth via depressors while the cutters sever moored mine cables. Once cut, mines float to the surface for safe detonation or retrieval, clearing paths for naval vessels.

NOTE:
IOC: 2000
Operators: United States Navy
Platforms: MH‑53E Sea Dragon (primary), MH‑60S Knighthawk (secondary)
Conflict used in: Employed in training and real-world clearance missions; no known combat losses

SOURCE: cmano-db.com: weapon list & details ; US Navy Mine Warfare manual MCWP 3‑3.1.2 figures ; GlobalSecurity.org MH‑53E Sea Dragon equipment description