Abstract: A system for storing and deploying a number of elements sequentially in connected but spaced-apart relationship is described. Adjacent elements are joined together temporarily by connectors which overlay adjacent elements. The connectors are bound to the elements by a plurality of cables, one of which is wound around each element and the overlying connectors. One end of each cable is connected to the element around which it is wound and the other end is connected to the next preceding element. When tension is applied between the cable of the first element and the last element, for example, by connecting an underwater tug to the cable and connecting a drogue to the last element, the cables unwind one by one releasing the connectors and extending the elements in a straight line, spaced apart by the length of the connecting cables.

Abstract: Drogue release apparatus for air-dropped sonobuoys is disclosed in which the drogue is attached to a spring-loaded release unit which is carried at the top surface of the sonobuoy, with an ejection spring positioned between the release unit and the top of the sonobuoy to eject the release unit upon water impact. A second spring acts normally as a detent to prevent ejection and is freed to permit ejection of the release unit upon impact by the momentary downward travel of the release unit as a result of the impact.

Abstract: A bottom release mechanism for a sonobuoy is provided in which a removable end cap is provided with a deformable detent member in the form of either a leaf spring or frangible member, which normally maintains a spring-loaded pin in locking engagement with the sonobuoy package thereby to lock the end cap in position at the bottom of the sonobuoy package. Upon water impact the deformable detent is deformed out of engagement with the spring loaded pin thereby releasing it which permits release of the end cap from the sonobuoy package. The use of the deformable detent member increases reliability of end cap release over large entrance angles of the dropped sonobuoy with respect to the surface of the ocean.