Goodrich to supply sonar domes for U.S. Navy surface combat ships

The five-year indefinite-delivery/indefinite-quantity contract is potentially valued at up to $33 million and covers deliveries through 2013, according to Charlotte, N.C.-based Goodrich. Work will be performed by Goodrich’s Engineered Polymer Products team in Jacksonville, Fla.

A sonar dome is an acoustically transparent housing that surrounds a ship’s sonar transducer array used for detection, navigation and ranging. The dome permits acoustic energy to pass through with minimal sound degradation. The Goodrich contract covers two types of sonar domes: a sonar composite dome (SCD) and a sonar dome rubber window (SDRW), according to Goodrich.

The SCD, mounted on the keel of FFG-7 frigates, uses a proprietary composite system designed to provide optimal structural and acoustic performance to the ship’s sonar system. SCDs, which replaced traditional rubber domes on U.S. and allied Navy frigates in 1997, provide significant savings on maintenance costs, and have the potential to last many years even under the demanding operating conditions faced by naval surface ships, according to Goodrich.

The SDRW, bow-mounted on DD-963 and DDG-51 class destroyers as well as CG-47 class cruisers, is a specialized rubber-wire reinforced structure that houses a ship’s sonar system. The rubber’s unique energy-absorption and reflection properties enhance the sonar system’s detection capability. Goodrich has produced more than 300 SDRWs over the past four decades, according to the company.

“Our proven ability to provide advanced acoustic products that maximize sonar system performance gives our sailors a significant tactical at-sea advantage,” said Jim Pollock, vice president for Goodrich’s engineered polymer products team. “Our dedicated team of professional engineers and manufacturing experts is committed to delivering superior acoustic technologies in support of the U.S. Navy.”