Abstract:
Current statutory requirements for naval surface combatants mandate ship shock trials to determine vulnerability to underwater explosion (UNDEX) non-contact shock threats. These trials involve a series of shots with increasing severity, with data extrapolated from a two-thirds design level shock for crew safety. This data, including velocity and acceleration responses, is then compared to equipment shock qualification levels to predict performance. While five whole-ship shock trials have been conducted on AEGIS ships over the past 20 years (CG 48, CG 53, CG 62 (limited), DDG 53, and DDG 81), the paper argues that these trials have reached a level of diminishing returns, especially given dramatic shifts in battlefield threat scenarios and significant costs and environmental considerations. Consequently, the paper suggests that a new approach to shock qualification is urgently needed.
