Scoping Study on DRDC Toronto Future Research Regarding Naval Mine Countermeasures

Abstract : Canada currently possesses limited to modest Mine Counter Measure (MCM) capability that includes Maritime Coastal Defence Vessels (MCDVs) used for coastal surveillance and patrol, and Clearance Diving Units for identification and disposal of sea mines. In recognition of its MCM capability deficiencies, Canada has been actively involved in defining a program for integrating unmanned underwater vehicles (UUVs) in current MCM operations through collaboration with other Allied nations. In line with this effort, the Underwater Intervention in Shallow Water/Very Shallow Water (SW/VSW) Operations Applied Research Project (ARP) was proposed in 2008 with the objective to improve Canadian Forces' (CF) capability to conduct MCM, combat diving, and Special Operations Force operations in shallow and very shallow water by increasing the capacity of underwater systems, operators, and divers; reducing risk and equipment burden on the diver; and extending speed and accuracy in the conduct of these operations. The NATO certification Exercise NOBLE MARINER 11 was identified as a suitable venue for exposing CF personnel and Defence Research and Development Canada-Toronto (DRDC) analysts to MCM operations and enabling them to gain a more holistic understanding of the MCM process. The team's experiences from various ships were consolidated into a comprehensive list of deficiencies in the following areas: (1) sonar operators, (2) diving operations, (3) unmanned underwater vehicles, (4) underwater communications, (5) C2 communications, and (6) planning and risk calculation software. This report summarizes these deficiencies as observed by the CF and DRDC researchers during the exercise, and proposes areas for future research for the above ARP. The insights gained from this analysis will be used to provide Canada and its allies with adaptive and easy-to-interpret feedback on their operational practices and plans as they conduct MCM operations.