US Navy sonar training can now happen in more places, for longer

The US government has updated rules for how the Navy can use sonar and explosives during training exercises. This means the Navy can now conduct these activities in a wider area and for a longer period, even if marine mammals are present.

For years, environmental groups and the Navy have fought over how much noise is too much for marine mammals. These new rules give the Navy more flexibility to train in areas previously restricted or with tighter limits. It shifts the balance toward military readiness and away from strict marine mammal protection in certain circumstances.