A system and method for evaluating a bond is provided. The system uses an adjustable submerged plasma probe to generate a compression wave in a first vessel containing a liquid. The system further includes a second vessel in which a vacuum is pulled to hold the first vessel against a bonded structure being inspected. The compression wave is directed to propagate from the liquid into the bonded structure to apply a known force to the bond being inspected. The adjustable submerged plasma probe allows the intensity of the compression wave to be increased or decreased at the bonded structure.