ABU DHABI Ñ The U.S. Navy has decided to replace anti-mine systems
with trained dolphins to detect and neutralize threats in the Persian Gulf.
The dolphins are said to be capable of detecting explosives and enemy
frogmen. The commanders said the dolphin's natural sonar system is more
effective than man-made technology.
Naval commanders said the dolphins are meant to protect
the U.S. naval presence in Bahrain, headquarters of the Fifth Fleet, as well
as other areas of the Gulf.
The Fifth Fleet has brought dolphins to replace sea lions, who were used
to detect threats in shallow water, Middle East Newsline reported. The sea lions came from California and
were trained to work in a range of environments.
The sea mammals have been termed Mk-6 anti-swimmer dolphin system.
Commanders said they can be deployed anywhere at a moment's notice.
"It is reassuring to know that we can put our anti-swimmer dolphins
where we need them rapidly and successfully, in order to protect our
sailors, ships and high value assets," Lt. Cmdr. Martin Anderson, U.S. Naval
Forces Central CommandÕs Special Operations branch officer, said. "These
dolphins and their handlers provide a valuable capability, by guarding U.S.
and coalition ships and piers in the waters of not only the Arabian Gulf,
but throughout 5th Fleet waters."
"Hardware-based systems have limitations that the dolphins make up for
naturally, which helps them discriminate between objects and swimmers," Dan
Cook, a sonar technician at the Fifth Fleet's Explosive Ordnance Disposal
Mobile Unit 3, said. "This is particularly helpful in high noise
environments, such as harbors and bays."
The commanders said the dolphins were effective in stopping Iraqi
attacks on U.S. Navy ships and facilities during the Gulf war. They said the
dolphins as well as sea lions can be easily deployed in other areas of the
Gulf.
