Intelligence: ACOUSINT Definition
ACOUSINT is the collection of acoustical information underwater such as sonar "signatures" or sound signatures (gathered via sensitive hydrophones).
One example of the gathering technique and implementation is the SOSUS line which is a long line of hydrophones laid under the Bering Straight. The mission of this sensor line is to note the passing of Soviet ships leaving their waters through the Straight. For instance, a massive movement of submarines across the line would indicate a possible move to wartime footing. The data from the SOSUS network is used to identify a number of submarines by their unique acoustical signature. Thus a nation's Navy is able to track individual submarines.
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Last Updated: 11/15/95
