Ortega Submersibles is based on a WWII SBS project called “MSC Sleeping Beauty”by sir Quintin Reeves, one of the real world inspirations for the character Q from the 007 novels, was one of the inventors working for Station IX, one of the British armed forces R&D groups. Reeves is credited as the inventor of the Welrod silenced pistol, the first night vision goggles, and the Welbum, an aptly named motor for military divers meant to be mounted to the diver’s lower back. Last, but by no means least, he also designed the Motorized Submersible Canoe, nicknamed “Sleeping Beauty” due to an anecdote where he was found sleeping in it. the Sleeping Beauty was a one-man craft designed for infiltration operations.
Inspired by the basic concept of the Sleeping Beauty, Ortega Submersibles produces Swimmer Delivery Vehicles (SDV). The vehicles are developed with the goal of transporting divers in a quick and comfortable manner. Due to the extended range the vehicles can be dropped at a safe distance from the mission target. In combination with large cargo capacity and more mission specific load, new kinds of missions are possible. Ortega Submersibles are non atmospheric SDV’s. The weight of the hull and all its component is compensated by built in floats which make the SDV neutrally buoyant. A closed loop trimming system can adjust buoyancy to positive or negative, giving the option of flexible cargo weight on infiltration and extraction missions. Also it gives the option to park and leave the SDV on the sea-floor.
Ortega Submersibles is being designed for the Dutch special forces, and comes fully equipped with a trim tank, onboard rebreathers, an on-board HUD supplying important navigational data and also a double redundant analog navigational and control system. Its honeycomb structure is filled with air for buoyancy. Pending the skill and equipment of the operator dive depths of up to 40 meters are supported. The Mk. 1C also features a high framerate 3D Sonar system that is capable of resolving objects, environments and threats in great detail. This system makes navigating in zero visibility possible. There is also two infrared cameras on the nose with a direct feed to the cockpit as well as six LED lights. A FLIR camera for surface use is also present. The Ortega can be parked underwater and left for multiple weeks if necessary. A fully autonomous secondary control system is in development. Rubber mounted ultra silent motors, special noise absorbing materials and coating ensure a low Sonar profile.
Powered by two 10 KWh electric trusters, it is capable of a high surface and submersed speed. An on board trimming-system and air supply makes it possible to extend bottom times. Each sub has a variety of dopplers, sonars, INS’s and other sensors to suit your needs. All on-board equipment supports dive depths of up to 95 meters/310 feet. Teering is done by two rudders and two front fins. Two additional thrusters, mounted vertically and horizontally in the bow help steering in tight spaces and make docking easier. Due to the open superstructure, safely leaving the SDV is always possible. Onboard air tanks allow divers to switch from gas to rebreather. The SDV can be outfitted with various navigation systems. Ortega Submersibles has redefined this remarkable way of underwater travel by using highly advanced naval technology. The Ortega Submersibles is an ergonomic, multi-purpose submersible of the highest quality in modern Dutch Engineering.
