Low Probability Detection Constrained Underwater Acoustic Communication: A Comprehensive Review

This research presents a review of low probability of detection (LPD) constrained underwater acoustic communication (UWAC). The recent surge in seabed resource exploration and overseas military operations has reignited interest in LPD CUAC. The demand for secure communication in underwater acoustic channels has increased as it is environmentally friendly and enables communication in the presence of potential adversaries, making it attractive for various sectors, including the oil and gas industry, military, and marine applications. Despite these advantages, a challenge lies in communicating without being detected. This article scrutinizes the pertinent research to provide insights into the mechanisms of this technology and attract communication system designers to this emerging research area. It starts with an overview of covert underwater acoustic communication and a detailed understanding of LPD analysis; then a range of applied and experimental work is explored, covering waveform designs, modulation, signal processing, and the role of neural networks in low signal-to-noise ratio communications. It also presents a combination of techniques for future research into stabilizing covert communication in underwater acoustic channels.