Operational problems in deep ocean search

The two major operational problems in deep ocean search are: 1) providing an adequate underwater navigational system in the area of interest and 2) minimizing search time, since time and cost are intimately related. The first problem is considered in hand due to pioneering work by Spiess (long base system) and Buchanan (short base system) as well as others. The second problem is discussed in terms of minimizing the search area A and maximizing the sensor sweep width W. Conceptual rather than detailed solutions are presented. In particular, the need for the establishment of a target location distribution on the search area and the requirement for the use of a priori knowledge when searching with nonvisual sensors are discussed.