Description: Airborne Mine Neutralization System (AMNS) consists of two major subsystems, the Launch and Handling System (LHS) and a destructor. The expendable neutralization destructors are deployed from the LHS supported by the MH-60S helicopter. The destructor is controlled from within the MH-60S by a sensor operator using the common console. The sensor operator performs positive mine identification via video before initiating warhead detonation. AMNS deploys as part of the Mine Countermeasures Mission Package onboard Littoral Combat Ships (LCS), aboard other aviation-capable platforms, or can be shore-based in support of fleet operations.

The LHS consists of all hardware and software necessary for data processing during an AMNS mission.  Attached to the Carriage, Stream, Tow, and Recovery System (CSTRS) installed on the MH-60S helicopter, the LHS can carry up to four destructors on a single mission. Each of the four destructors can be launched, one at a time, from the LHS. The LHS is lowered into the water to destroy mines. Upon completion of its mission, the LHS is retrieved by the MH-60S.

The destructor communicates with the common console via a fiber-optic data link, providing sonar and video data for display and use by the system operator. The destructor contains a sonar, video camera, light, and shape charge warhead to accomplish target reacquisition, identification, and neutralization/countermining. The destructor is negatively buoyant, has six degrees of motion, can maintain a hover position, and can automatically transit to the edge of the mine search area before being manually flown by the sensor operator to locate the mine. Additionally, the destructor can monitor depth and relative distance from the bottom. The destructor’s position is determined by an Integrated Track Point II acoustic tracking system contained in the LHS.

Background:  The U.S. Navy established a requirement for rapid neutralization of proud (un-buried bottom) and moored sea mines to support operations in littoral zones, confined straits, chokepoints, and the amphibious objective area. AMNS satisfies this requirement and provides commanders with a rapid, organic mine neutralization capability against proud and moored sea mines to support the mission of the Carrier Strike Group and Expeditionary Strike Group.