FT2 David Baker and his teammates aboard USS Pasadena helped demonstrate a way to launch an underwater robot from a torpedo tube. One option required a communications modification that typically costs about $200,000 per submarine. Instead, Sailors worked with shore maintenance teams and Blueye Robotics to develop a 3D-printed waterproof housing and wiring system that kept the robot connected to its controller. The Navy already owned the ROV. The additional materials and labor cost less than $1,000. They tested it successfully, demonstrating a potentially affordable way to conduct underwater searches and inspections. More work remains on qualifications and integration. We’ve got people who can figure this stuff out. Let’s give them room to do it.

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