February 2012

Underwater Climate Change Research - Data collected by Royal Navy submarines, as part of standard operations, is set to provide clues on Arctic climate change.    Little is known about the areas of water underneath the Arctic ice, as sensors are difficult to place for the long term. Now environmental researchers are to be presented with previously unavailable information, courtesy of the Ministry of Defence.      Environmental data such as water temperature and salt content are routinely monitored by all Royal Navy vessels, so submarine missions can provide a snapshot of conditions under the ice and shed light on the changes taking place in the Arctic.    The MOD's Defence Science and Technology Laboratory is working with the Natural Environment Research Council and the UK Hydrographic Office to prepare data for the benefit of environmental researchers.