Executive Summary
This thesis analyzes the combat survivability components of surface ships, focusing on how design and implementation affect overall survivability. It examines threats faced by modern warships and explores vulnerability and susceptibility reduction techniques, including signature management, threat warnings, and suppressions. The study aims to establish a foundation for a naval survivability discipline at NPS.
Why It Matters
This document is crucial for defense analysts as it provides a comprehensive overview of naval combat survivability, detailing techniques and design considerations vital for protecting surface ships against modern threats. Understanding these principles is essential for developing resilient naval forces and effective counter-strategies in contemporary maritime warfare.
Key Takeaways
- Naval survivability is a function of vulnerability reduction, susceptibility reduction, and damage control/recoverability.
- Susceptibility reduction, through signature management (radar, acoustic, IR) and threat suppression, is a primary focus for modern warship design.
- The integration of cross-disciplinary engineering fields is critical for enhancing ship survivability against diverse threats in engagement scenarios.
Strategic Relevance
This study directly impacts naval strategic planning and procurement by outlining critical factors for enhancing the resilience of surface combatants. It informs decisions on ship design, defensive systems, and operational tactics, contributing to the long-term viability and effectiveness of naval power projection.