VOLUME I Multinational Maritime Tactical Instructions and Procedures

MTP 1(D), Vol. I
9200 GENERAL CONSIDERATIONS
SECTION II — CONTACT PROSECUTION
The reaction of units gaining contact on a hostile submarine will be influenced by:
a. The range at which contact was gained.
b. The capabilities and ranges of own ASW sensors and weapons.
c. The degree of threat to the force screened.
d. The classification of the target.
9201 CONTACT CLASSIFICATION
Classification is the method by which subordinate commanders inform their superiors and other units
of their opinions as to whether contacts which they have just detected or are investigating are of submarine origin.
Since classification is subject to the individual reactions of personnel who have varying degrees of experience,
classification terms are inevitably subjective in character. The maximum possible degree of
standardization is essential if senior officers and accompanying forces are to react quickly and with confidence
to contact reports. Classification terms are therefore intended as a guide; reporting commanders may
use their own judgement in interpreting the terms, always bearing in mind the aim of such reports.
9202 CONTACT CLASSIFICATION TERMS
a. CERTSUB (Certain Submarine Contact). A contact that has been sighted and positively
identified as a submarine is classified CERTSUB. Parameters for this assessment are: a surfaced submarine;
a submerged submarine; submarine masts, antennae, periscope or snorkel; a missile emerging from
the sea-sighted and positively identified by competent personnel. If any doubt exists about the certainty of
the observation the contact should not be classified CERTSUB.
b. PROBSUB (Probable Submarine Contact). A contact that displays strong cumulative evidence
of being a submarine is classified PROBSUB. Evaluation of a contact obtained by one or more of the following
sensors. Possible sensors include sonar, radar, electronic intercept, magnetic anomaly detector (MAD),
passive or active sonobuoys, towed arrays, optronics, and other devices may be followed by a PROBSUB classification.
The possible means of sensor contact are numerous. The following guidelines illustrate the extent
and quality of the evidence that is required before a PROBSUB classification may be made.
(1) Contact by Active Sonar or Active Sonobuoy.
(a) Competent personnel report a firm sonar contact showing submarine characteristics.
NOT RELEASABLE
9-19 ORIGINAL