The SEAL Delivery Vehicle is a submersible watercraft that allows U.S. Navy SEALs to sneak into enemy territory undetected.
Transportation Underwater
Known by the acronym "SDV," the SEAL Delivery Vehicle is a manned submersible watercraft, which means that it transport soldiers underwater. The SDV is typically used by U.S. Navy SEALs. Teams of SEALs travel outside the SDV in the water while wearing Scuba equipment or breathing from the vessel’s compressed air system. The exposure to water means that the SDV is a "flooded vessel."
The SDVs are designed to carry a pilot, co-pilot, combat team and equipment into enemy territory or mission sites. Traveling underwater provides Navy SEALs with the cover needed to enter an area undetected. For this reason, SDVs are often used for covert missions and secret operations.
Launched from Submarines
SDVs are frequently launched from submarines. However, the vessels can be dropped into bodies of water from aircraft such as Hercules transport planes. The vessels are powered by strong Lithium batteries. Despite being flooded in water, SDVs contain communication and navigation systems, and life support equipment.
Because of their use underwater and their stealth capabilities, SDVs have captured the popular imagination of the public and have been showcased in Hollywood movies and video games.
Developed in the Second World War
The Seal Delivery Vehicle traces its origins back to the Second World War. The vessels were originally designed to help underwater demolition teams. U.S. Navy SEALs began to actively use SDVs in 1975. The vessels have been in active duty ever since and continue to provide Navy SEALs with the stealth they need to accomplish covert operations around the world.