AOS Statement: Evolution of Multipurpose Acoustic Observatories in the Arctic.

This paper addresses the gap in ocean in situ observations in the Arctic. We describe how multipurpose acoustic systems can contribute to an optimized Pan Arctic Ocean Observing System. The upcoming pan-arctic Coordinated Arctic Acoustic Thermometry Experiment are described as well as how this can be used to create a multipurpose Arctic observation system for the future. It is a major problem that in situ observing systems lack sustainability. Accordingly, our main statement is that sustainable ocean observing systems in the Arctic depend on long-term funding, and we argue for that funding mechanisms other than research programs should be used for this.