US Army Employs Sub-Atlantic ROV from Forum for Clearing Ordnance Reef

The subsea remotely operated vehicle, Sub-Atlantic Comanche from Forum Energy Technologies is being used by the US Army to clear the Ordnance Reef a region off the Waianae Coast of Oahu.

The remotely operated underwater munitions recovery system (ROUMRS) was used to destroy the explosives that were recovered from the reef; this site was originally used for disposing military ammunition post World War II.

The Sub-Atlantic Comanche ROV is made up of a propulsion system having thrust lifting capabilities in seven directions. The ROV was also armed with special equipment that caters to the complex nature of the underwater recovery operation. Prior to the use of the ROV, the Army deployed deep sea divers to clear the ammunition underwater. This is the first time an ROV is being used for the purpose. The recovery using the ROV is an integrated effort of ARA and the Oceaneering International, both organizations work for the US Army. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration and the Department of Oceanography from the University of Hawaii also contributed to the effort.