In April 1998 Sea Technology published an article on CHECKMATE, outlining its potential as an ASW System that effectively creates an impassable barrier to submarines and MHV’s alike. Since then, Research & Development has continued to the stage whereby CHECKMATE is now probably also the ultimate RDS.

A number of exotic and expensive solutions to gathering information underwater, whether by sonic, magnetic, pressure, laser or other ‘black magic’ methods have evolved and are readily available, Multi Influence Target Indicators (MITI). How to assimilate/ disseminate and utilise such information for Civil and Military is much more difficult.

Therefore the optimum sensor should be capable of two-way communication and rapid deployment by sea or air, into a fixed and known position in the seabed, where it will remain, offering data on demand to the host. To whatever role it is assigned, the sensor needs to be invisible to Sonar, VDS and counter-mine disruptive devices. The sensor should also be capable of deploying reactive payloads, such as lightweight torpedoes, and being pre-programmed or commanded to self-destruct.

All the foregoing requirements appear to be totally fulfilled by CHECKMATE with its unique ability to transmit-receive data under difficult propagation conditions.

In essence, CHECKMATE is an inexpensive patented canister designed to burrow into the seabed, carrying a role-related payload, either to stand proud or buried to the degree required. It therefore provides a stable platform in a known position.

Possession of CHECKMATE thus converts those areas of the seabed selected for deployment into an immediately available, covert “Low Cost Platform”, offering an inexpensive solution to many maritime “Operational Requirements”, including:

The isolation of pariah states by blockade.

Closing of choke points anywhere in the world, in a matter of hours.

Monitoring — surveillance in remote areas and in the littorals.

Reconnaissance — intelligence gathering.

Decoy activity — ruse de guerré.

Flexibility in deployment by any seaworthy vessel.

Rapid deployment by air.

“Ring Fence Protection” of vessels in doubtful /unfriendly waters.

Defensive maritime mining, with an increased Volume of Influence (VOI) of at least 400 to 1 or more, depending on the range of the weapon encased in CHECKMATE.

CHECKMATE

AN ASW SYSTEM, WHICH UNTIL THE LAWS OF PHYSICS ARE CHANGED, CONVERTS SONAR/ VARIABLE DEPTH SONAR FROM AN ASSET INTO A LIABILITY.

In sum, CHECKMATE appears to be “Tailor Made” for Network Centric Warfare offering an Equipment Capability able to dominate Maritime Warfare, both on the surface of the Sea and in the UWB, all at significantly reduced defence expenditure, whilst enhancing National Security beyond measure.