OVERVIEW: The AN/SSQ-62D 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-62D DICASS is typically used to fix a submerged target's position after it has been localized by a DIFAR or other means. Unlike previous AN/SSQ-62 -series buoys, the AN/SSQ-62D is set during pre-flight to either a "shallow" or "deep" setting. In the shallow setting, it can then be command-activated to deploy to either 50, 150 or 300 feet, while in the "deep setting" it can be command-activated to deploy to either 90, 400 or 1,500 feet. 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-62D has a lifetime of 60 minutes. It can be deployed at airspeeds up to 370 knots and altitudes as low as 350 feet.
NOTES: As of 2014, the AN/SSQ-62D is no longer in production.
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