Background: The Deep Drone is a 7,200-foot depth rated Remotely Operated Vehicle (ROV). The system is designed to meet the Navy's needs for deep ocean recovery. The system is air transportable on military cargo aircraft and is designed to operate from various ships.

Features: The operator can control the ROV in all six degrees of freedom. Auto-control functions are provided for depth, altitude, and heading. The vehicle is capable of functioning with both long and short baseline bottom navigation systems. The vehicle uses electric propulsion, giving it a low noise signature. It carries a target locating sonar and has two manipulators capable of working with tools and attaching rigging. For photographic documentation, the vehicle has a 35mm still camera and both black and white and color television cameras that produce quality videotape. Electrical power for the system is provided by a diesel generator or the power system of the supporting ship if it is compatible.

For special operations, the ROV can accommodate custom, skid-mounted tool packages. These packages could include, but are not limited to, trenchers, specialized salvage tools, and instrument packages or other mission-oriented equipment.