U.S. Special Operations Command (USSOCOM) has declared Initial Operational Capability for Lockheed Martin’s Dry Combat Submersible (DCS).
DCS is designed to transport a special operations team to their destination and enables personnel to arrive discretely to their desired exit point. Due to the DCS’s lock-in/lock-out technology, special operators can get in and out of the vehicle while entirely submerged and undetected.
With this capability, U.S. Special Operations Forces traveling extended distances below the surface of the ocean will be safe to do so without a wetsuit and without exposure to the elements.
Sustainment operations will include lifecycle support, post-delivery logistics support, pilot and special operator training, and training equipment to ensure the safe and effective operation of the new capability in future special forces efforts.
USSOCOM believes this milestone represents a transformational capability for its forces in Maritime and Undersea Systems.
“The Dry Combat Submersible has the potential to transform undersea warfare for special operators,” said Gregg Bauer, C6ISR vice president and general manager at Lockheed Martin. “DCS provides safe, clandestine delivery for occupants over long distances in a completely dry environment and features a lock-in and lock-out chamber. Occupants arrive at the mission warm, rested, hydrated and ready, making this vessel a key advantage in mission success.”
Jason Crawford, senior program manager for Manned Combat Submersibles, says, “We look forward to delivering the third DCS and supporting DCS into Full Operating Capacity, filling a critical gap for USSOCOM.”
