Is USSOCOM missing a trick with semi-submersibles?
The Stidd MRCC (top left in surface mode and top right submerged), Armacraft Trident Mk1 (bottom left) and Armacraft Trident Mk2 (bottom right) are examples of semi-submersible craft. (Photos: Stidd/Armacraft)
Semi-submersible craft could present opportunities for USSOCOM in covert operations.
Semi-submersibles could prove to be a crucial enabler for SOF to conduct stealthy infiltration in littoral waters — but it appears that US Special Operations Command (USSOCOM) has no specific requirement in place for dual-function craft that can operate on the surface or dive and propel underwater.
Is USSOCOM missing an opportunity? Mark Cancian, a senior advisor at the Center for Strategic and International Studies (CSIS), offered Shephard his insight on possible semi-submersible usage.
‘Semi-submersibles have received a lot of attention because of their stealthiness and simplicity, not having the complexity of a full submarine. Given SOCOM's interest in covert
Already have an account? Log in
Want to keep reading this article?
More from Naval Warfare
-
![Future of the Canadian Patrol Submarine Project is still unclear]()
Future of the Canadian Patrol Submarine Project is still unclear
The Canadian government remains tight-lipped on the timeline and funding required for the next steps of its Canadian Submarine Patrol Project, which should offer improved capabilities for the country’s navy.
-
![Mitsubishi eyes future with Australia’s Mogami selection]()
Mitsubishi eyes future with Australia’s Mogami selection
With Australia’s selection of the Mogami-class for Project Sea 3000, Mitsubishi is investigating local production in the next decade as potential export opportunities emerge.
-
![Thales’ new Sonar 76Nano could equip UK Royal Navy on anti-submarine warfare missions]()
Thales’ new Sonar 76Nano could equip UK Royal Navy on anti-submarine warfare missions
The new sonar is designed to equip uncrewed underwater vessels, with the potential to be used by the Royal Navy for its Atlantic Bastion and Atlantic Net missions.
-
![UK to join US Navy’s Virginia-class submarine assembly effort to speed up construction]()
UK to join US Navy’s Virginia-class submarine assembly effort to speed up construction
The expansion of the Virginia-class submarine construction to UK shores could accelerate the project as US shipbuilders continue to fall short of delivery goals.
