SSBN Towed Arrays

[markmeredith@cinci.rr.com]

Hi Guys,

I am working on drawing scale plans of boomers. I intend to draw a set for early, mid and late versions for each class as well as the various SSN conversions. I have observed two different types of towed arrays, an early externally mounted version of unknown nomenclature and a later internally mounted version which is probably the BQR-15. Can anyone tell what time frames these systems were installed? Does anyone know what the early exterally mounted system was?

USS Will Rogers with early array


USS Casimir Pulaski with externally mounted towed array (BQR-15?)


Thanks

[cdivine]

Funny story, when I was just a kid and first learned what a "towed" array was, I thought it was a Toad array. I could never understand why it was called that because I didn't know what it's function was. I had just heard what it was called and how it was pronounced. I knew what a toad was because of a related joke (which I won't share). Sorry I couldn't resist sharing the random story. Hopefully it's worth a chuckle.

Sorry I cannot offer any relevant info on the subject of arrays. Is there a military history unclassified site or source that could be located for this type of info? Or have you tried Janes' almanac?

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ohio-class_submarine

http://www.naval-technology.com/projects/ohio/

[X Bubblehead]

The last two photos are likely a BQR-15 for the mid-70's timeframe quoted, but STASS was available too. Physically, you wouldn't be able to tell the difference unless you measure the array length.

The first shot could be a de-watering hose, since we (sonarman) were very protective of our arrays and didn't leave them dangling, supported by their own weight in drydock basins where they were susceptible to damage. Typically, if the array is off/on-loaded in drydock, a platform is erected behind the stowage tube outlet and the array is attached to the tow cable and retrieved or blown out using water pressure to a big honkin cable spool where its stored.