Reliability growth for expendable mobile ASW training target (EMATT): a 1-shot device

The expendable mobile antisubmarine warfare (ASW) training target (EMATT) is an open-ocean one-shot expendable target used by the US Navy in simulated combat missions. EMATT is deployed either from surface vessels or from the air. Prototype models were subjected to in-water field tests at the US Navy's Atlantic Underwater Test and Evaluation Center (AUTEC) at Andros Island in the Bahamas. While these tests validated EMATT's design approach, the numerical reliability level achieved was too low, resulting in significant design modifications, including a revised layout of the signal processor, change to surface-mounted devices in the guidance and control system, new mechanical packaging of the electronics, implementation of a built-in test capability, and changeover from hand crafting of mechanical components to factory tooling for a high rate of production. Problems encountered and resulting design improvements are summarized.<>