Military Significance of Deep Diving Vehicles 630253
The deepest known trench in the oceans is Challenger Deep at 35,800 ft. However, only about 2% of the oceans measure deeper than 20,000 ft. Present-day submersibles are generally limited to depths less than 400 ft. Between 400 and 20,000 ft lies over 90% of the ocean volume. The ability to use this volume would enhance the following military characteristics of submarines: concealment; invulnerability from detection and attack; and ability to detect and attack surface shipping and other submarines. Such improved characteristics are considered necessary to assurecontinued control of the seas.
