It’s a Boat, It’s a Sub, It’s…..

DGB SDV during trials

The USA encountered immense difficulties with its dry chamber Advanced Seal Delivery System, and almost abandoned of the project. As the Navy et. al. ponder ponder what to do, a New Year’s resolution to to pay close attention to developments in Sweden and its 10m “Diver Group Boat” may be in order.

On the surface, the DGB performs like a fast rigid inflatable boat; powered by a diesel engine and water jet propulsion, it can reach speeds of up to 30 knots. The same propulsion system is used when the hull is flooded and the vehicle runs semi-submerged with a low detection signature. Or, it can turn into a “wet” submarine delivery vehicle for special forces troops, powered by four electric thrusters.

DCE AB’s concept
(click to view larger)

The DGB is available in sizes for 3 or 6 divers, and can be equipped with tailor-made systems for specific missions e.g. sonar, fire control or hull verification systems. It’s a boat. It’s a semi-submerged boat. It’s an SDV+… and Sweden’s FMV Procurement Agency has just started formal trials. In addition to the FMV release, manufacturer DCE AB of Sweden has its own page for “The SEAL.”

Germany’s FuInfoSys C4I System

Rheinmetall and KMW both issued releases recently, discussing contracts they’ve won as part of Germany’s FuInfoSys Heer (FuInfoSys H) program. DID has discussed FuInfoSys briefly in the context of the IdZ “Infantry-21” program. Now the working group awarded the “FuInfoSys Heer” (“Army Command Control and Information System”) contract will progressively equip some 1,500-1,600 armoured and non-armored vehicles with the new technology by 2011.

India to Arm ALH Dhruvs with Giat’s THL-20 Turrets

Dhruv ALH

Hindustan Aeronautics Limited has awarded a contract for the supply of 20 THL 20 turrets that will equip the Indian Armed Forces’ ALH (Advanced Light Helicopter) “Dhruv”. The order to Giat Industries of France covers the development phase of 20 turrets, with first deliveries in 2008. See release.

The nose-mounted THL-20 is armed with a 20mm M621 cannon, and will be combined with a helmet sight for India’s Dhruvs so a pilot can simply look and fire. A figure was not disclosed.