MAD equipment is operated at what altitude to maximize proximity to enemy submarines?

• A. High Altitude
• B. Medium Altitude
• C. Surface Level
• D. Very Low Altitude

Answer: (D)

MAD detects tiny distortions in the Earth's magnetic field caused by the submarine’s metal hull. The strength of that disturbance falls off rapidly with distance, so the signal is strongest when the sensor is as close as possible to the submarine. Flying at very low altitude above the water puts the MAD equipment right near the hull, maximizing proximity and making the anomaly easier to detect. In practice, aircraft equipped with MAD fly just above the surface, a balance between keeping the sensor close and maintaining safe, controllable flight. Higher altitudes would push the sensor farther away and weaken the signal, while surface level is not practical for an airborne MAD system and introduces other safety and noise issues.