Australia’s Sea Mine Disposal: The Critical Role of DAMDIC and Double Eagle ROVs
BlueZone Group’s Strategic Support for Sea Mine Disposal Operations
The DAMDIC is an advanced Mine Disposal Charge (MDC) designed for deployment from Remotely Operated Vehicles (ROVs) like the Saab Double Eagle MKII. In collaboration, BlueZone Group, Thales Australia, and Saab work to sustain the Double Eagle Mine Disposal System’s capability, ensuring it remains effective beyond the Huon Class Minehunter Coastal ships end-of-life. The DAMDIC MDC is a vital component of Australia’s sea mine countermeasures, providing a safe and efficient method for destroying sea mines across various environmental conditions.
The primary purpose of the DAMDIC is to keep personnel out of harm’s way. This is achieved by engineering the DAMDIC for precision and safety. It employs a bulk charge principle and is designed to be laid with high accuracy. One of the key safety features of the DAMDIC is that it does not contain batteries or other energy sources and can only be detonated when submerged.
When a sea mine is detected, the Double Eagle ROV is deployed carrying the DAMDIC. When the Double Eagle ROV is in position, the DAMDIC is deployed positioning it near the target using precise, pre-calibrated hydrodynamic glide technology. The DAMDIC’s design balances size and weight—large and powerful enough to effectively neutralise conventional bottom sea mines, yet light enough to maintain the ROV’s speed and manoeuvrability. This balance ensures both maximum impact against mines and efficient handling by the ROV.
The DAMDIC charge is a critical asset in Australia’s mine disposal operations, and the Saab Double Eagle MKII ROV is specifically designed to carry and deliver this essential tool with precision. The synergy between the DAMDIC and the Double Eagle system is paramount for enabling effective mine neutralization. By maintaining a dedicated stock of DAMDIC charges, Australia secures a reliable capability chain for mine disposal. The Double Eagle’s capability assurance program is key to leveraging Australia’s substantial investment in DAMDIC ammunition, ensuring these charges are deployed effectively and securely.
BlueZone Group Pty Ltd has supported the Double Eagle MKII ROV in Australia for over 25 years, ensuring the nation’s mine disposal capabilities remain at the cutting edge of technology. BlueZone’s longstanding commitment has been instrumental in sustaining and enhancing the operational readiness of the Double Eagle systems. Our team’s expertise in technical support, maintenance, and obsolescence upgrades has kept the Double Eagle a reliable and effective tool for sea mine disposal. Through the partnership between BlueZone, Thales, and Saab, continues to maintain a robust mine disposal capability, safeguarding maritime operations and personnel.
Read More:
Double Eagle Mine Disposal System – Capability Assured – BlueZone Group
Saab Acquires DAMDIC Manufacturer Nordic Defence Industries – BlueZone Group
