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Why Modern Warships and Submarines No Longer Rely on Periscopes
Why Modern Warships and Submarines No Longer Rely on Periscopes
Advanced technology in the modern era has led to significant changes in naval warfare, particularly in how ships and submarines are equipped and operate. In the past, periscopes were a crucial tool for submarines and to some extent also for battleships. However, as technology has evolved, the reliance on periscopes has diminished. This article will explore the reasons why modern warships and submarines no longer need periscopes as a primary means of navigation and combat.
The Evolution of Periscopes
Periscopes have been a vital instrument for naval operations since the early 20th century. Primarily developed for submarines, they provided a means of viewing the surface from underwater, allowing submarines to ingress and egress without being detected. Similarly, during World War II, periscopes were used in battleships to provide temporary above-water observation. However, as technology advanced, the necessity for periscopes has waned.
Why Submarines Still Use Periscopes
Submarines continue to use periscopes as a reliable backup and supplementary tool for navigation and combat. Despite the advent of advanced sonar and radar systems, periscopes offer a visual and tactile advantage in certain situations. Modern periscopes are significantly more advanced than their World War II counterparts, featuring enhanced optical clarity and better protection against damage in deep water. They are used for:
Navigation: Periscopes are used to navigate in shallow waters where radar and sonar can be less effective. Combat: For direct fire solutions, especially in scenarios where radar signals might be jammed or blocked. Surveillance: For short-term visual reconnaissance in areas with poor radar coverage.Additionally, periscopes provide continuity in training and are often used for practical exercises and drills, ensuring the crew remains proficient at using them.
The Decline of Periscopes in Surface Warships
Modern surface warships, on the other hand, have largely abandoned periscopes as a primary means of navigation. The advent of radar and other advanced technologies has made periscopes redundant for most surface operations. Instead, surface ships rely more on:
Radar Systems: Capable of detecting and tracking targets over vast distances, including surface ships and aircraft. ViBRIM (Very Brite Infra-Red Microwave) Systems: Provide precise targeting and support for direct fire solutions. Optical Sensors: For long-distance visual surveillance and identification of targets.These advanced technologies can detect targets beyond what the human eye can see, making periscopes unnecessary for day-to-day operations. However, submarines still use periscopes as a critical backup and supplementary tool.
The Role of Periscopes in Modern Naval Operations
While the role of periscopes has diminished, they still play a significant part in modern naval operations, particularly for submarines. The integration of periscopes with other advanced systems ensures that submarines have reliable and redundant options for navigation and combat. For example, periscopes can:
Support Sonar: Provide real-time visual confirmation for sonar readings, enhancing accuracy. Communicate with Airborne Assets: Allow submarines to relay critical information to airborne assets for better coordination. Backup Radar: Provide an alternative method of navigation and target identification if radar systems are compromised.In addition, periscopes are crucial for training new submarine crews, ensuring that they are proficient in using the equipment and maintaining vital skills.
Conclusion
The decline of periscopes in modern naval warfare is a testament to how technology has transformed naval operations. While surface warships have largely moved away from relying on periscopes, submarines still see their value as a critical backup and supplementary tool. The integration of periscopes with other advanced systems ensures that submarines have reliable and redundant options for navigation and combat.
The future of naval warfare is likely to see further advancements, and while periscopes may continue to play a role, their importance will remain secondary to the more sophisticated technologies that modern navies have at their disposal.