U.S. Navy Explores Teaming SEALs in Mini-Submarines With Underwater Drones

U.S. Navy is developing methods to pair uncrewed underwater vehicles with submersibles carrying Navy SEALs. The effort aims to increase operational reach while lowering exposure for operators during high-risk missions. Navy Capt. Mike Linn described the concept during the annual SOF Week conference. He said the goal is for UUVs to work with SEAL Delivery Vehicles, also known as SDVs.

The main workhorse of the SDV force is the Mk 11 Shallow Water Combat Submersible. 5 feet long, carries a crew of two and up to six passengers, and is a wet submersible design. The Navy has also acquired several Dry Combat Submersibles in recent years. These pressurized vessels can operate at greater depths and deliver occupants dry and warmer than the Mk 11.

Potential Benefits and Challenges Capt.

Linn said UUVs could scout ahead for mines or hazards and allow smaller unmanned platforms to pass through defended harbor entrances. He compared the concept to an unmanned wingman in aviation.

“That is the goal," Linn said when asked about the Navy’s view of teaming UUVs with SDVs. He noted that both crewed SDVs and UUVs are currently limited in their ability to communicate underwater. Through-water data transfer remains difficult, and systems must be well synchronized to remain survivable.”

Testing is already underway at the Naval Surface Warfare Center Panama City Division in Florida. Capt. Linn said the service is still years away from achieving the reliability level required for operational use. He added that questions remain about launch locations and how volume constraints inside SDVs would affect carrying UUVs.