Research progress on the wake of underwater vehicles

The wake characteristics of underwater vehicles during navigation are influenced by factors such as the intensity of ocean stratification, free surface effects, and unsteady motion, making them detectable and posing challenges to their stealth. This paper systematically reviews the latest research progress on underwater vehicle wakes, focusing on three key aspects: theoretical modeling, experimental research, and numerical simulation. It discusses the wake generation mechanisms, evolution patterns, and key influencing factors in stratified flows, highlighting the limitations of existing models in describing complex stratified structures, nonlinear effects, and turbulent dissipation. The paper proposes the future development of high-precision coupled models, multi-physics experimental databases, and intelligent wake control algorithms. Additionally, it explores the current state and future directions of wake detection and suppression technologies, aiming to provide insights for optimizing underwater vehicle design, enhancing stealth capabilities, and advancing efficient detection technologies.