SOF Week 2023: JFD unveils Tactical Diving Vehicle technology.

According to a PR published by JFD on May 9, 2023, the company has launched its advanced four-man tactical diving platform, Shadow Seal, during SOF Week 2023, ahead of delivery to United States partner Blue Tide Marine (BTM) for demonstration and training purposes.
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JFD Global's booth at SOF Week 2023. (Picture source: JFD)

The Shadow Seal, a highly versatile and efficient lightweight Tactical Diving Vehicle (TDV), is capable of transporting a team of four - a pilot, a navigator, and two passengers - in various modes, including surface, semi-submerged, and submerged, for a distance of up to 80 nautical miles.

The vehicle provides Special Operations Forces with unmatched underwater agility, enabling them to covertly navigate the growing offshore and littoral water divide. The Shadow Seal can be customized to meet diverse ISTAR and combat needs, offering advanced protection to high-value assets and critical infrastructures.

In March 2022, a strategic alliance with BTM was forged as part of JFD's plan to broaden its footprint and subsea maritime capabilities in the US. BTM went on to acquire the first production model of the Shadow Seal, offering local demonstrations and training services.

This marked a significant step forward in JFD's aim to provide a comprehensive US service, including the supply of TDVs and ongoing support services throughout the product's lifecycle.

Originally designed by Ortega Submersibles in the Netherlands, the Shadow Seal was acquired by JFD in 2019. Since then, it has been subjected to additional development and stringent testing.

JFD has leveraged its four decades of experience in the subsea domain and integrated proven technology from its Carrier Seal, which is currently in service with various navies worldwide. The latest Shadow Seal model has been upgraded with an expanded battery capacity, improving the vehicle's range and endurance.

During SOF Week 2023, from May 8-11, JFD showcased a prototype model of the Shadow Seal (MK1D) at Stand 501 in the Tampa Convention Centre, together with BTM. This event serves as a key platform for JFD US to highlight its leading-edge capabilities in the undersea sector.