JFD set to deliver Shadow Seal tactical diving vehicle to US partner

JFD's US-based strategic partner BTM is pursuing potential opportunities for Shadow Seal with US Special Operations Command, the US Navy, and other government agencies. (JFD)

A new hybrid multimission swimmer delivery vehicle developed by UK-based JFD has commenced sea trials ahead of delivery to US partner Blue Tide Marine (BTM) later in 2023.

Shadow Seal is described by JFD as “an adaptable and extremely capable lightweight tactical diving vehicle (TDV) able to transport a pilot, a navigator, and two passengers in surface, semi-submerged, and submerged modes with a range of 80 n mile”. BTM is pursuing potential opportunities for Shadow Seal with US Special Operations Command, the US Navy, and other government agencies.

JFD announced a strategic partnership with BTM in March 2020 as part of its strategy to expand its presence in the US subsea maritime market. BTM – a US-based specialist in underwater mobility and life support – subsequently purchased the first production model of Shadow Seal to provide local demonstration and training services.

Originally developed by Ortega Submersibles in the Netherlands – the assets and intellectual property of which JFD acquired in 2019 – the 8 m Shadow Seal TDV is claimed by its manufacturer to offer “unparalleled underwater manoeuvrability to special operations forces required to covertly cross the expanding offshore and littoral water gap”. Weighing 2,500 kg light, the vehicle is able to carry a payload (four personnel plus equipment) of up to 750 kg. Submerged operations can be performed down to a maximum diving depth of 24 m.