OVERVIEW: The AN/SSQ-53F DIFAR (Directional Frequency Analysis and Recording) is an "A-size" passive directional and wideband omni-directional sonobuoy.


DETAILS:  The AN/SSQ-53F DIFAR combines a passive directional capabilities of the AN/SSQ-53D with the wide band omni capability of the AN/ SSQ-57 into a single sonobuoy. It has a directional capability in the 5 Hz-2,400 Hz range, as well as an omnidirectional hydrophone operating in the 5 Hz-20 kHz for general listening purposes.  It is capable of deploying at preset depths of either 90, 200, 400 or 1,000 feet preset lifetimes of either 0.5, 1, 2, 4 or 8 hours. A fixed constant shallow omnidirectional (CSO) hydrophone operating at the 30 Hz-5KHz range is deployed at 45 feet to provide omnidirctional information at shallow depth.  Capable of remaining operational in up to Sea State 6.  Capable of being deployed at airspeeds between 30-370 knots and altitudes of 100-30,000 feet.  The AN/SSQ-53E also features the ability for operators to change buoy settings (except for depth) after deployment.
   

NOTES:   Entered service in 2004.

 
SOURCES:  Sonobuyo Tech Systems, AN/SSQ-53F DIFAR Sonobuoy, accessed on 21 November 2014 ; www.traktoria.org/files/sonar/sonobuoy/AN_SSQ-53F_DIFAR_Sonobuoy.pdf ;  Federation Of American Scientists -. "AN/SSQ-53 Directional Frequency Analysis and Recording Sonobuoy." Accessed November 21, 2014. http://fas.org/man/dod-101/sys/ship/weaps/an-ssq-53.htm ; Jane's Underwater Warfare Systems, "AN/SSQ-53F DIFAR", 04 July 2014.