Mobile Acoustic Scoring Sytem

The Mobile Acoustic Scoring System (MASS) is a free floating buoy system that has been developed to enable warships to undertake self-conducted Naval Gunfire Support (NGS) training exercises. The use of simulation technology allows Naval vessels greater training flexibility and effectiveness.

The Mobile Acoustic Scoring System consists of a set of operational buoys, which report acoustic event data, buoy position (GPS location) and precise time (to 150 microseconds) as it relates to the fall of shot. The system is functional with a minimum of 3 buoys but between 5 and 7 buoys are typically deployed, depending on customer requirements.

The data associated with a specific event is transmitted via a spread spectrum radio to a base station receiver located on the ship from which the original shells were fired, or on a consort. This base station receiver, which consists of a personal computer and radio transmitter, receives, processes and then calculates the data and displays where the shell landed relative to a chosen target point. This data provides real time feedback accuracy of the gunfire.

This system has been designed to be portable and free-floating, therefore gunnery exercises can be positioned anywhere. The entire system is very portable and can be easily handled by two personnel. Alternatively, there are options for the buoys to be moored; based on the length of time they are required to stay in the water, how frequently the buoys are exchanged and movement tolerances during the training will be considerations. After design specifications are given for the system, METOCEAN will adapt the buoys for their required functionality. The total training range from the control vessel to the target can be up to 20km line of sight using this system, depending on conditions. The distance between the buoys can be up to a maximum of 5000m; however METOCEAN recommends a radius of 300 - 1000m.