Passive ASW - Barriers

Question 1

Define the components of a barrier

Answer 1

The Jig Point is a fixed geographical position established by Maritime Head Quarters (MHQ) for each sortie. It is the intended drop position of the first buoy (Kingpin) of each sonobuoy. Any change of the Kingpin position will be passed as a range and bearing from the Kingpin or as a Lat and Long of the new Kingpin position.

Question 2

Define a Kingpin

Answer 2

The Kingpin is the master buoy position on which a barrier or a field is orientated. The Kingpin will normally be the end buoy of a barrier or the corner buoy of a field.

Question 3

Define a Road

Answer 3

The road is the orientation of the barrier from the Kingpin (bearing along which buoys are laid).

Question 4

Types of Sonobuoy Patterns

Answer 4

1. Localising
   - Field
2. Barrier
   - Ahead
   - Flank
   - De-lousing
   - Protective
3. Tracking
   - Buckets
   - Chevrons
   - Wedge

Question 5

What are the elements of ordering a Field?

Answer 5

• Number of buoys
• Number of rows
• Buoy spacing
• Row spacing
• Row orientation
• Field direction
• Offset

Question 6

Define Sonobuoy Dropping Rule

Answer 6

When aircraft or helicopters are dropping sonobuoys, a lateral separation of 1,500 yards must always be enforced to ensure safety of aircraft operating at lower altitudes

Question 7

What are the Merlin Dropping Rules (At night or IMC)?

Answer 7

Refer to table page 277 in folder

Question 8

Sonobuoy Interference Avoidance Plan (SIAP)

Answer 8

To limit radio channel interference between adjacent units op sonobuoys.