Zone Defense -- Anti-Submarine Warfare Strategy in the Age of Littoral Warfare

Anti-Submarine Warfare (ASW) is an increasingly complex and challenging aspect of maritime warfare. Technologically advanced countries such as Germany, Sweden, and France continue to develop advances in diesel submarine technology that make these vessels more difficult to detect. As the U.S. Navy's area of operations shifts from deep-water operations to the littorals of the world, an evaluation of current ASW tactics may be required. This paper analyzes the relevance of the ASW threat to today's Navy, the inherent differences in operation between blue and brown water areas, the changing technology being used on diesel submarines, and the current ASW tactics being used by the U.S. Navy. With an understanding of the fundamental changes that are occurring in the theater of operations this paper concludes with the recommendation that a re-evaluation of current tactics must be done to ensure the most efficient use of assets for the task of ASW.