$6.8M for 76 Diver Propulsion Devices
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civvies like ‘em, too!
STIDD Systems Inc. in Greenport, NY received $6.8 million under previously awarded GSA Federal Supply Schedule contract M67854-05-F-1039 to exercise an option for 76 Diver Propulsion Devices (DPD), DPD spares, training, and other miscellaneous items.
So, who wants this equipment? Besides thousands of civilian SCUBA divers who have their own versions, that is.
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These DPDs look like small torpedoes with hand-grips, and are used to transport Marine Corps divers over a long distance and at a fast pace. As pictured above, similar but smaller devices are gaining popularity among recreational divers for all the same reasons: the ability to cover longer distances with more stuff in tow, limit exposure time to cold water, minimize excessive exertion and fatigue while maximizing endurance, and increase time in the objective zone.
Special Operations Technology reports that the US Marines have a total acquisition objective of over 300 STIDD DPDs in support of the USMC underwater reconnaissance capability (URC) requirement. They also note that US Navy SEALs also operate STIDD DPDs (Swimmer Transport Device, or STD) under a 9-year firm fixed-price contract. STIDD has apparently provided USSOCOM with 28 DPDs to transport SOF combat swimmers to and from the Advanced SEAL Delivery System (ASDS) whenever the distance is too far for a quick swim.
The Marine Corps Systems Command, Quantico, VA issued this particular contract, and work will be performed in Greenport, NY. Work is expected to be complete in July 2006.
