Lockheed Martin to Build Dry Combat Submersibles for U.S. Special Operations Command

Under the terms of a US$166 million U.S. Special Operations Command (USSOCOM) contract, Lockheed Martin will build as many as three Dry Combat Submersibles (DCS) vehicles over the next five years.

The DCS vehicles, which have a longer endurance and operate at greater depths than swimmer delivery vehicles (SDV) currently in use, are designed to transport personnel to their mission sites while submerged.

The vehicles will weigh more than 30 tons, be launched from surface ships, and be able to travel long distances underwater.

Currently, personnel transiting underwater use a SDV to reach their final destination – the personnel are in dive gear and exposed to the undersea environment. The DCS allows the personnel to get closer to their destination before they enter the water, allowing them to conserve energy and potentially be more effective upon arrival.

“Our advancements in undersea technologies will ensure personnel are equipped with technologically capable and adaptable systems that can easily be refreshed with the latest capabilities,” said Erika Marshall, general manager and program director at Lockheed Martin’s site in Palm Beach. “These reliable undersea vehicles will protect personnel, ensure they arrive ready to execute their mission, and return them safely.”

Lockheed Martin has partnered with Submergence Group, LLC to build, integrate, test, and deliver up to three submersibles to USSOCOM. Work will be performed in Plymouth, United Kingdom, and Palm Beach County, Florida.

See other recent news regarding: Lockheed Martin, Submersible, Defence, Security