What does magnetic ranging allow a ship to do?

Magnetic ranging is a technique used primarily to protect naval vessels from underwater threats by improving the accuracy of their degaussing systems. Degaussing involves using electromagnetic fields to mitigate the magnetic signature of a ship, making it less detectable to enemy mines and torpedoes that rely on magnetic sensing.

By using magnetic ranging, a ship can effectively measure and understand its own magnetic signature in relation to the surrounding environment. This allows for more precise adjustments and calibrations to be made to the ship's degaussing equipment, enhancing its stealth capabilities and overall operational effectiveness.

This understanding of magnetic ranging directly supports the need for ships to reduce their signature and therefore minimize the risk of detection and engagement by threats that exploit magnetic anomalies. As a result, enhancing degaussing through magnetic ranging is a direct application that supports naval tactical advantage.