Indonesian Navy is set to become the third country in the region to deploy the advanced Submarine Rescue Vehicle System (SRVS) from the United Kingdom, following the recent signing of a procurement contract. The acquisition of the SRV-F Mk3, produced by Submarine Manufacturing & Product Ltd. (SMP), represents a significant leap forward in submarine rescue technology and bolsters the capabilities of the Indonesian Navy’s submarine fleet. The SRV-F Mk3 is recognized as the world’s most advanced submarine rescue system. This state-of-the-art rescue vehicle, coupled with its dedicated Mothership (MOSHIP), positions Indonesia at the forefront of submarine rescue operations. The SRV-F Mk3 is a free-swimming, manned submersible designed for untethered rescue missions at depths exceeding 500 meters.
The RV-F Mk3 Submarine Rescue Vehicle System (SRVS) represents a significant advancement in underwater rescue technology. Operated by a crew of three, the SRV-F Mk3 can accommodate up to 50 submariners per rescue dive. It features a NATO ANEP MNEP 85 / 85.1 compliant mating skirt with an innovative soft seal, allowing it to connect with distressed submarines (DISSUB) at angles up to 45 degrees. This flexibility ensures efficient and effective rescue operations even in challenging conditions. With a displacement of 50 tonnes, it is designed for critical missions, leveraging advanced lithium polymer battery technology to deliver an endurance of over 12 hours under normal operations.
The vehicle is capable of Transfer Under Pressure (TUP) operations at depths up to 50 meters sea water (msw), a crucial feature for rescue operations in pressurized environments. It is fully compatible with Launch and Recovery Systems (LARS), ensuring stable operations even in sea conditions with significant wave heights of up to 3.5 meters. The RV-F Mk3 can reach a through-water speed of 3 knots using its own propulsion and can be towed at a maximum speed of 7 knots, making it versatile in various deployment scenarios. Additionally, the vehicle is equipped with an emergency surfacing method, enhancing crew safety during critical situations. Its air transportability via A400M aircraft ensures rapid deployment capabilities, making the RV-F Mk3 an indispensable asset for modern naval rescue operations.
Submarine Manufacturing and Products Ltd (SMP) are firmly established as one of the worlds leading manufacturers and suppliers of commercial diving equipment. The company manufacture hyperbaric chambers, saturation diving systems, hot water machines, diver launch and recovery systems. SMP also supply commercial diving equipment including Kirby Morgan diving helmets, Coltri breathing air compressors, Cortland surface supplied diving umbilicals, Bowtech underwater camera systems, Birns underwater lighting, Stanley hydraulic underwater tools, underwater NDT equipment. SMP has achieved full accreditations to BS EN 9001:2015, BS EN 13485:2016 and BS EN ISO 14001:2015 as well as CE94777 to Directive 93/42/EEC for Quality Assurance and Environmental Management. In addition, the company have earned numerous awards for exports and manufacturing.
