NATO is intensifying efforts to track Russian submarines in the North Atlantic amid growing concerns over Moscow’s undersea operations.
Defence sources highlight that while submarines are easily spotted on the surface, locating them once they submerge has always been a major challenge. The North Atlantic remains a critical strategic region for the alliance, which needs to know where Russian submarines are operating and what they are doing.
Poseidon at the Forefront
The Boeing P-8 Poseidon, a maritime patrol and reconnaissance aircraft, is central to NATO’s response. Operated by the US, UK, Norway and now Germany, it is one of the most advanced anti-submarine platforms available.
The aircraft can drop sonobuoys, floating devices equipped with radio transmitters and underwater hydrophone sensors, which provide enhanced “Undersea Domain Awareness”. These sensors detect, locate and track submarine movements before relaying the data via satellite to allied command centres.
Cold War Tactics Revived
The UK also deploys Merlin Mk2 helicopters, which can conduct similar missions. Much of the technology, however, is not new. Techniques for monitoring submarines were developed during the Cold War, when NATO feared Soviet attempts to disrupt Atlantic supply routes.
One of the most significant systems was SOSUS (Sound Surveillance System), a network of fixed seabed sonar arrays, including installations across the Greenland-Iceland-UK (GIUK) gap. With the end of the Cold War, such static systems were largely retired.
Modern Methods at Sea
Instead, NATO has relied on mobile detection methods such as the Towed Array Patrol System (TAPS). This is fitted to the Royal Navy’s Type 23 frigates, which tow long cables containing hydrophones. These detect submarine activity at a distance, away from the ship’s own engine noise.
The system allows triangulation of targets and remains one of the most reliable tools for submarine detection.
Return of Fixed Systems and New Technology
Reports suggest that some static systems may now be returning. In 2022, Denmark confirmed plans to reopen a closed NATO early warning station in the Faroe Islands. Meanwhile, US defence contracts point to renewed investment in SOSUS-style networks.
Alongside these Cold War-era tactics, NATO is also developing autonomous technologies. Silent sailing drones and underwater unmanned vehicles are being explored as future options to track submarines without putting personnel at risk.
Renewed Undersea Threat
The resurgence of Russian submarine activity has forced NATO to blend proven Cold War methods with modern innovations. From Poseidon patrols to seabed sensors and autonomous drones, the alliance is determined to maintain control of the undersea battlespace.
