OVERVIEW: The AN/SSQ-62C DICASS (Directional Command Active Sonobuoy System) is an "A-size" command activated, active, directional sonobuoy designed primarily to develop and maintain attack criteria in an ASW prosecution.
DETAILS: The AN/SSQ-62C DICASS is typically used to fix a submerged target's position after it has been localized by a DIFAR or other means. It can be command-activated to deploy to either 90, 400 feet, and additionally can be programed to deploy to either 1,500 or 2,500 feet prior to being jettisoned from the aircraft. Its active sonar is command activated and transmits on one of four factory set frequencies (6.5, 7.5, 8.5, 9.5 kHz). The AN/SSQ-62C has a lifetime of 60 minutes. It can be deployed at airspeeds up to 350 knots and altitudes as low as 350 feet.
NOTES: As of 2014, the AN/SSQ-62C is no longer in USN inventory, although the exact date the stockpiles were consumed is uncertain.
SOURCES: Jane's C4ISR & Mission Systems: Maritime, "AN/SSQ-62 series DICASS", 03 September 2014 ; Federation Of American Scientists -. "AN/SSQ-62B/C/D/E Directional Command Activated Sonobuoy System (DICASS)Sonobuoy." Accessed November 23, 2014. http://fas.org/man/dod-101/sys/ship/weaps/an-ssq-62.htm; Friedman, Norman, and Norman Friedman. The Naval Institute Guide to World Naval Weapon Systems, 5th Edition. Annapolis, Md: Naval Institute Press, 2006, pg. 703 ; GlobalSecurity.org - Reliable Security Information. "AN/SSQ-62B/C/D/E Directional Command Activated Sonobuoy System (DICASS) Sonobuoy." Accessed November 24, 2014. http://www.globalsecurity.org/military/systems/ship/systems/an-ssq-62.htm