DAMDIC - Background

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The DAMDIC came to consist of two units - the charge and the cable spool which contains min. 1,000 metres of cable. The explosive element of the charge is contained within a yellow glass-fibre reinforced polyester shell. Aft on the charge, the fuse mechanism  with safety devices is hidden under a black shield with fins which are designed to ensure that DAMDIC follows a controlled glide trajectory when released from the ROV and gliding to the seabed. Four short legs and the fins prevent DAMDIC from rolling away from the mine if the target is located on a slope.

Whilst the charge is large enough to offer an extremely high kill-probability against any type of bottom mine, DAMDIC will not, due to its size or weight, adversely influence the speed and manoeuvrability skills of the ROV delivery platform. DAMDIC weighs 49 kilos in air and 21 kilos submerged. It is only 82 centimetres long, and its diameter is a mere 25 centimetres. The main charge consists of 31 kilos of Composition B, and DAMDIC is designed to operate at depths of 6 to 300 metres.

By means of a specially developed and very accurate drop delivery technique, DAMDIC can be placed right next to the mine. Extensive trials have resulted in a complete set of drop curves for relevant current speeds and heights above the seabed. Software based on this material is integrated into the ROV's TV sub-system and controls an aiming reticule (bomb sight) on the operator's display. In fact, this high-technology equipment makes it possible to place the charge within 10-20 cm from the mine.

Recently, an alternative drop method has been developed: DAMDIC can be equipped with an extension console which, when DAMDIC is released from the ROV, extends but is still attached to the charge and the ROV. Using this "ladder" function, the ROV positions the charge very close to the mine before it releases DAMDIC completely.

The use of cable to detonate DAMDIC was preferred over acoustic signals, as these are regarded as unreliable in coastal waters with large variations in salinity through the water column.