[UNDERWATER DEMOLITION TEAM UDTs / U.S. NAVY SEALs SWIMMER PROPULSION UNITS SPUs FOOTAGE]

Year Published: 1952

Color: Color

Sound: silent

Description: The silent footage from around 1952 showcases early propulsion and mobility innovations developed by the U.S. Navy Underwater Demolition Teams (UDTs), now known as the U.S. Navy SEALs. It features the UDTs using the Aerojet Swimmer Propulsion Unit (SPU) and highlights their operations on the WWII submarine USS Quillback, which was instrumental for UDT training. The film includes rare glimpses of the Swimmer Propulsion Unit Mark II, equipped with propellers and a CO2 propulsion system, capable of achieving speeds of three to four knots. Additionally, the Mark V SPU is presented, resembling an underwater bicycle, which offered enhanced efficiency compared to traditional swim fins. The footage illustrates the evolution of underwater mobility technology during this period.

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