Long-term ambient noise statistics in the northeast South China Sea

This paper reports on the long-term statistics of ambient noise (50-2000 Hz) in the northeast South China Sea. The data were collected from July 2016 to March 2018. The long-term statistics, seasonal, and diel variations of ambient noise are analyzed. There are significant seasonal variations from 500 to 2000 Hz. The ambient noise level at 1000 Hz is 6-10 dB higher in winter than in summer. There is only a small difference between the day and night comparison (less than 1.6 dB). The results are significant to evaluate and improve the performance of underwater acoustic systems in this area.