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Orion

The upgraded Australian Orions, designated AP-3C, were introduced in 2002. The aircraft is fitted with a variety of sensors, including digital multi-mode radar, electronic support measures, electro-optics detectors (infra-red and visual), magnetic anomaly detectors, identification friend or foe systems, and underwater acoustic detectors.

Detection

Magnetic Anomaly Detector

Located in the long boom at the rear of the aircraft, the Magnetic Anomaly Detector (MAD) is an incredibly sensitive device that reads fluctuations in the earth's magnetic field. Large metal objects, such as submarines, can create a local variance in the magnetic field, that when detected by the Orion's MAD, can reveal its location.

Magnetic Anomaly Detector diagram

Radar

The Orion's radar system is able to scan 360° and continuously track any detected targets.

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Full Specifications: AP-3C Orion

Role
Long-range surveillance, anti-submarine and anti-ship warfare, search and survivor supply
Crew
Thirteen:
  • Two Pilots (Captain and Co-pilot)
  • Two Flight Engineers
  • Tactical Co-ordinator
  • Navigator/Communication Officer
  • Sensor Employment Manager
  • Six Airborne Electronic Analysts
Engines
Four Allison T56-A-14
(4600 shaft horsepower each)
Airframe
Length: 35.6m | Height: 10.44m
Wingspan
30.8m
Weight
61,200kg maximum
Speed
750 km/h (405 knots) maximum,
650 km/h cruise (350 kts) at 26,000 feet,
370 km/h (200 kts) loiter
Endurance
15 hours
Weapons
Mk 46 / MU 90 torpedoes, AGM-84 Harpoon air-to-surface missiles, various sonobuoys and stores, air-sea rescue kits, storpedoes and heliboxes.

Attack

The AP-3C Orion may work alone, or in conjunction with other aircraft or ships. Wartime missions include locating and attacking enemy submarines and ships using torpedoes and Harpoon anti-shipping missiles.

Harpoon II

Harpoon II

Designed to be launched from over the horizon, this anti-ship weapon flies at very low altitudes and uses active radar homing to reach its target.

Mk-46 Torpedo

Mk-46 Torpedo

The Orion is also equipped with the MK-46, a lightweight torpedo designed to counter nuclear or conventional submarines. It is presently identified as the NATO standard.

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Surveillance

Star Safire

The Star Safire Electro Optic unit provides high quality infra-red and visual spectrum video to the Orion's operators. Capable of detailed viewing of distant objects, even at night, it gives the aircraft excellent surveillance capabilities.

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Surveillance operator
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