Deep-submergence rescue vehicle

Deep-submergence rescue vehicle (DSRV) is a type of submarine specifically designed for the rescue of personnel from submarines that have become disabled on the ocean floor. The development of DSRVs has been driven by the need to be able to rescue submariners who are trapped in submarines that have sunk due to accidents or malfunctions.

History

The concept of a DSRV was first proposed in the early 20th century, but it was not until the 1960s that the first operational DSRVs were developed. The United States Navy and the Royal Navy were among the first to develop and operate DSRVs. The development of DSRVs was spurred by a number of submarine disasters, including the sinking of the USS Thresher and the USS Scorpion.

Design and Operation

DSRVs are typically small submarines that are capable of being transported by ship or aircraft to the location of a disabled submarine. They are equipped with a number of features that are designed to facilitate the rescue of submariners, including a docking skirt that allows the DSRV to attach to the disabled submarine, and a transfer chamber that allows submariners to move from the disabled submarine to the DSRV.

DSRVs are typically operated by a crew of two or three, and can carry up to 24 passengers. They are capable of operating at depths of up to 600 meters, although some newer models are capable of operating at even greater depths.

Notable DSRVs

There are a number of notable DSRVs, including the Mystic and the Avalon, which were operated by the United States Navy, and the LR5, which is operated by the Royal Navy.

See also

• Submarine rescue ship
• Submarine escape training facility
• Submarine Escape Immersion Equipment