Anisotropic optimization of the current field with the variational method

An anisotropic variational method for horizontal velocity field interpolati on is suggested, which differs from the previous methods by additional mini mization of nonlinear terms in the equation of the momentum balance that ap peared efficient in distinguishing narrow jet streams. The method is applie d to two regions of the World Ocean (the Northwest Pacific and the Nova Sco tia shelf), characterized by different scales, physical processes, and data available (Lagrangian drifters and hydrographic survey, respectively). The solutions obtained were compared with the fields calculated using the meth od of optimal interpolation.