Crossing Enemy Lines – The Growing Demand For Submersible Technology

In several recent procurement specifications for submersible equipment, U.S. Special Operations Command (USSOCOM) has increased the operating depth requirement from the 1-10 meter range, to 20 meters (66 feet). While no specific reasons have been stated – at least not in unclassified sources – it may be reasonably assumed that this is in response to improved technology and wider deployment of underwater intrusion detection systems by our potential enemies. The requirement particularly affects equipment components that are directly exposed to water; not those that are contained in watertight enclosures themselves certified for operation at 20 meters depth or greater.

This paper examines USSOCOM's emerging requirements for new and updated submersible equipment, with a focus on the factors that qualify such equipment for operation in combat environments. Specifically, it addresses the components most often considered the weakest link – namely, electrical cable connectors. Typically, significant changes in military equipment requirements such as this spawn innovation in the private sector. So the paper concludes by reviewing the types of equipment for which the 20-meter submersible capability may soon become standard.