Navy Sonar vs. Whales: Permission to Train in Pacific and Indian Oceans
Published Date: 7/11/2025
Notice
Summary
The U.S. Navy wants permission to use special sonar for training in parts of the Pacific and Indian Oceans from August 2026 to August 2033. This sonar might accidentally affect marine mammals, so the government is working on rules to protect these animals while allowing the Navy to operate. People can share their thoughts before the final decision is made.
Analyzed Economic Effects
1 provisions identified: 0 benefits, 0 costs, 1 mixed.
Navy seeks 7‑year marine mammal take authorization
The U.S. Navy asked NOAA Fisheries (NMFS) for permission to incidentally take marine mammals while using SURTASS Low Frequency Active (LFA) sonar during training and testing in the western and central North Pacific and the eastern Indian Ocean from August 2026 through August 2033. NMFS is developing regulations and may issue a 7‑year Letter of Authorization (LOA) under the Marine Mammal Protection Act, and the public is invited to submit information and comments on the Navy's application.
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