Release date: 30/04/2025

 JFD North America enhances US Navy Submarine Rescue capabilities with advanced Integrated Communication System

• Innovative technology to be integrated into US Submarine Rescue Diving and Recompression System (SRDRS) to enhance communication and safety during a rescue operation
• Advanced communication system developed with 40 years’ experience and proven on world class submarine rescue systems
• Reflects mission to bring innovative underwater technologies and tailored support to meet unique demands of the region

JFD North America, part of the Defence Division within James Fisher & Sons PLC, has been successful alongside Chase Defense Partners, in bidding for the supply of an Integrated Cross Deck Communication (ICDC) System to be installed onto the United States (US) Submarine Rescue Diving and Recompression system (SRDRS).

JFD North America was established in 2021 to provide advanced underwater solutions and tailored support to meet the unique demands of the US Navy. Since then, it has further strengthened its presence and support to the region and this contract in response to Naval Sea Systems Command (NAVSEA) requirements further reinforces our commitment to this mission.

In the event of a Distressed Submarine (DISSUB), the US SRDRS is mobilised to a vessel of opportunity to locate the stricken submarine and conduct the safe rescue of submariners. Throughout the operation, communications, across the back deck and to the submersible are critical to ensure precise coordination, and facilitate safe real time mission success in high pressure, dynamic conditions.

JFD’s cutting edge Digital Diver Communications System (DDCS) forms the basis of the ICDC solution, delivering advanced audio routing, processing and connectivity tailored for both commercial and defence diving operations. Designed for scalability, DDCS supports applications ranging from simple intercom setups to complex multi-channel networks, able to meet the rigorous demands of interconnected units like ICDC.

Keith Lehnhardt, President JFD North America commented:

“We are delighted to support the US Navy with our ICDC solution bringing unmatched communication capability to the SRDRS significantly enhancing safety and efficiency for the operators and submariners over the existing system.”

Differing from conventional marine or industrial intercom communications systems, DDCS is designed specifically for long cable applications, ensuring safe, high-quality audio and seamless communication through isolated interfaces. JFD’s reliable dual redundant Fibre-Net technology, enables uninterrupted coordination in critical submarine rescue operations.

Mr Lehnhardt continued:

“This capability will build on similar capabilities adopted by the NATO Submarine Rescue System and Swedish Rescue Vessel HSwMS Belos and draws on our 40-year legacy providing proven submarine rescue capabilities to a global customer base.

We are proud to build on the strong foundations we have already established and enhance our commitment to deliver advanced underwater capabilities in this key market.”

JFD is an established provider to 80 countries and 33 navies worldwide and supports multiple submarine rescue systems in service globally. At the forefront of commercial diving and submarine rescue services, it delivers the most innovative products available to enhance the safety of those who spend their lives working subsea.