Integration of Ship Control Systems for Total Ship Survivability

Effective damage control in naval ships has always been an important element of the naval combat equation. After receipt of battle damage, the ship's offensive operational capability depends upon its ability to support or restore vital systems. This in turn depends on the degree of initial damage, the damage control readiness condition of the ship, and effectiveness of the crew in applying the ship's damage control doctrine. In addition to conventional shell, mine, and torpedo threats, the speed and lethality of modern weapon systems presents an increased requirement for damage control readiness. New technology for the monitoring and control of the ship's hull, mechanical, electrical, and damage control (HME&DC) systems is now available with the potential for improving damage control readiness and for aiding the ship's commander in executing his damage control doctrine. This paper will describe the evolution of ship control systems, and discuss the application of current ship control systems technologies to damage control. It will recommend an optimum approach to meeting the requirements of damage control readiness posed by modern day threats, working within the U.S. Navy concept called Total Ship Survivability (TSS).