The data collected in this sea trial will validate ocean-acoustic prediction models in this dynamic undersea environment.

Researchers from CMRE’s Environmental Knowledge and Operational Effectiveness (EKOE) programme have embarked on-board NRV Alliance to participate in the Recognized Environmental Picture Mediterranean 2020 (MREP20) sea trial in the Strait of Sicily.

The CMRE EKOE programme focuses on observing, understanding, describing and forecasting the marine environment for NATO Nations. Between 22 October – 04 November, CMRE researchers will work with partners from the Wood Hole Oceanographic Institution (USA); Heat, Light and Sound Research, Inc. (USA); Istituto Nazionale di Oceanografia e Geofisica Sperimentale (ITA); University of Bologna (ITA); French Directorate General of Armaments (FRA); French National Hydrographic Service (FRA); and Defence Research and Development Canada (CAN) to study the oceanography and acoustics where Eastern and Western Mediterranean waters meet.

CMRE has been conducting research in the Strait of Sicily since 1970 and investigating the oceanography and acoustics in the area since 1996. MREP20 allows researchers the opportunity to return to the area to analyse the 3D effects on acoustic propagation associated with the variability of the front. Their goal is to characterize small-scale and high-frequency oceanographic processes that impact sound propagation in a frontal area of the Strait of Sicily. The data will be used to validate the performance of ocean-acoustic prediction models in this complex environment.

CMRE’s participation in MREP20 is funded by the NATO Allied Command Transformation (ACT).

Despite the challenges posed by COVID-19 pandemic, NATO’s resilience enables CMRE to sustain its operations in order to ensure safety and security of the Alliance. All at-sea activities have robust procedures in place to protect researchers and crews and prevent the spread of the COVID-19 virus.

Image Caption: CMRE researchers and Italian Navy crews deploy a Wire Walker from NRV Alliance during MREP20.