Navy SEALs Seek New Tech For Covert Missions.

• Author: Magnuson, Stew

TAMPA, Florida -- Whether it is in super-fast and stealthy boats, mini-submarines or combat diving suits, Special Operations Command's elite maritime forces--better known as SEALs --are on the lookout for technologies that make their jobs easier.

"We're predominantly focused on access for maritime mobility, getting into denied areas other people can't go--other countries can't go. We provide the means and the methods for insertion," Navy Capt. Randy Slaff, program executive officer for maritime systems at Special Operations Command, said at the May SOF Week conference.

The good news to come out of the conference was that SEALs would soon receive the long-awaited Dry Combat Submersible, a mini-sub built by Lockheed Martin that can remain underwater for 24 hours, has a range of 60 miles and can travel at depths of 330 feet.

Naval special operators needing to travel undersea must currently don wet suits and use the SEAL Delivery Vehicle MK 11. The dry submersible--which can transport eight SEALs, plus two crew members--is expected to give them more time underwater because they are not exposed to the cold.

The concept for a dry submersible dates back to the early 1980s with a contract awarded to Northrop Grumman to build six of the Advanced SEAL Delivery Systems in 1994. After years of delays due to technical issues, the Navy canceled the program in 2009 after spending some $883 million. The current iteration was the Navy's third attempt at developing a dry submersible for SOCOM.

Also helping keep SEALs dry--at least until they arrive at their destination--is the Dry Deck Shelter, which attaches to Virginia-class attack submarines. SEALs use the shelter to don their wetsuits and leave and return via a lockout system.

"We're starting to look at what the next one looks like and how are we going to get after replacing them, because they can't last forever," Slaff said.

The command is currently studying the requirements for the Dry Deck Shelter Next, which will be affixed to the top of the new models of the Virginia-class submarines.

The program is seeking a new shelter capable of dispersing up to 18 swimmers and their equipment, as well as unmanned underwater or surface vehicles, according to slides.

It should also support "dry" missions, suggesting that it connect...