Combat diving

Combat Diving

Combat diving refers to the use of scuba diving or rebreather equipment by military personnel to conduct underwater operations. These operations can include reconnaissance, demolition, and infiltration missions. Combat divers are specially trained to operate in hostile environments and are often part of elite military units such as the United States Navy SEALs, British Special Boat Service, and other special operations forces around the world.

History

The history of combat diving dates back to World War II, when the need for underwater demolition and reconnaissance became apparent. The Italian Navy's Decima Flottiglia MAS was one of the first units to use combat divers effectively, conducting raids on Allied ships using human torpedoes and limpet mines. The success of these operations led to the development of similar units in other countries.

Training

Combat divers undergo rigorous training to prepare for the demanding nature of their missions. Training typically includes:

• Basic Underwater Demolition/SEAL (BUD/S) training
• Advanced diving techniques, including the use of closed-circuit rebreathers
• Underwater navigation and reconnaissance
• Demolition and explosives handling
• Combat swimming and stealth techniques

Equipment

Combat divers use specialized equipment to perform their missions. This includes:

• Rebreathers: These allow divers to remain underwater for extended periods without producing bubbles, which could reveal their position.
• Diving suits: Often made of neoprene or other materials to provide thermal protection and camouflage.
• Underwater navigation tools: Such as compasses and sonar devices.
• Weapons: Divers may carry small arms or knives for self-defense and mission-specific tasks.

Missions

Combat diving missions can vary widely but often include:

• Reconnaissance: Gathering intelligence on enemy positions, minefields, or underwater obstacles.
• Sabotage: Planting explosives on enemy ships or infrastructure.
• Infiltration: Covertly entering enemy territory to conduct raids or gather intelligence.
• Search and rescue: Recovering personnel or equipment from hostile environments.

Challenges

Combat diving presents numerous challenges, including:

• Hypothermia: Cold water can quickly sap a diver's strength and endurance.
• Decompression sickness: Also known as "the bends," this can occur if divers ascend too quickly.
• Visibility: Poor visibility can make navigation and mission execution difficult.
• Hostile environments: Combat divers must be prepared to face enemy forces and underwater hazards.

Notable Units

Several military units are renowned for their combat diving capabilities, including:

• United States Navy SEALs
• British Special Boat Service (SBS)
• Russian Naval Spetsnaz
• French Commando Hubert

See Also

• Underwater Demolition Team
• Frogman
• Special Operations Forces

References

• Smith, J. (2020). Underwater Warriors: The History of Combat Diving. Military Press.
• Johnson, L. (2018). Silent Service: The Role of Combat Divers in Modern Warfare. Naval Institute Press.