JFD and US Navy introduce Shadow NAV
JFD has partnered with the US Navy’s Naval Surface Warfare Centre – Panama City Division (NSWC PCD) to develop an advanced hands-free combat diver navigation module called the Shadow NAV.
Military combat divers often conduct underwater missions in hazardous and zero visibility conditions. Critical to mission success is having accurate underwater compass and depth readings to assist with navigation while
staying within closed circuit oxygen rebreather depth limits to prevent oxygen toxicity, which can cause significant health risks to the diver. Current handheld or tactical swim board mounted compasses, depth gauges, and chronometers are obsolete in a zero-visibility environment.
The Shadow NAV is fitted to a diver’s standard half mask and provides a clear visual display of the wearer’s compass heading, depth, and time even in near-zero visibility conditions. Through using a mask-mounted head-up display, combat divers are not restricted by the poor visibility mission environment and may not need to carry a tactical swim board.
JFD expects that the small, low-power enhanced navigation capability will significantly improve safety standards for military divers.
More from Naval Warfare
-
Indian naval crew awaits delayed Russian-built frigates
India has been re-evaluating its naval capabilities as its maritime objectives continue to expand beyond the Indian Ocean.
-
Singapore decommissions last two Challenger-class submarines
RSS Conqueror and RSS Chieftain were retired on 25 November, marking the end of the first era of Singaporean submarines.
-
Tusk calls for maritime policing in Black Sea to meet “threat posed by Russia”
The Polish prime minister made the call ahead of a meeting of Baltic and Nordic ministers to discuss security and geopolitics in the region.
-
Dropped lawsuit could mean South Korean companies cooperate on future warship building bids
Hanwha Ocean and HD Hyundai Heavy Industries could begin cooperating early in 2025 after both companies failed in their bids for Australia’s replacement fleet for its Anzac-class frigates.
-
New Netherlands combat support ship Den Helder starts sea trials
The vessel is expected to provide a significant additional capacity in the fight against drug trafficking and other police actions.