Drass and Leonardo Enhance Maritime Security with DS8 Submersible and Black Scorpion Torpedo

On December 2, 2024, the Italian companies Drass and Leonardo announced a strategic partnership to address emerging maritime threats, particularly in coastal and littoral regions. This collaboration led to the integration of Leonardo’s Black Scorpion light torpedo with the Drass DS8 Swimmer Delivery Vehicle (SDV), a stealth submersible designed for patrol and intelligence missions. Now equipped with the capability to deliver precise strikes against maritime targets, the DS8 enhances its role in modern naval operations.

During sea trials conducted over the summer, the DS8 SDV successfully launched Black Scorpion torpedoes in both static and dynamic conditions, proving its operational readiness for complex maritime security missions.

The Black Scorpion is a next-generation, compact torpedo with a diameter of just 5 inches, optimized for operations in shallow waters. Designed to neutralize fast surface vessels and conventional submarines, it provides a modern and efficient solution for maritime defense, including countering asymmetric threats. Its advanced features make it an effective tool for combating maritime terrorism.

Easily integrated into manned and unmanned platforms like the Drass DS8 SDV, the Black Scorpion is highly adaptable for a variety of missions, including maritime security and anti-submarine warfare (ASW). Thoroughly tested under operational conditions, it has become an invaluable asset for naval forces operating in sensitive coastal zones.

The Drass DS8 is a stealth warfare submersible designed for sabotage and intelligence operations. It can transport up to eight combat divers (or six in its “Heavy Load” configuration) and their equipment from a base—such as a ship or submarine—to targets like anchored ships, ports, or coastal installations. With its advanced navigation systems (GPS, INS, DVL) and communication systems (both wireless and wired), along with silent propulsion, the DS8 is a critical tool for special forces in challenging maritime environments. It is also compatible with the Black Scorpion, extending its operational versatility to both manned and unmanned missions.

This integration acts as a force multiplier, enhancing rapid response capabilities and deterring emerging threats in extensive maritime zones. Drass also offers another platform, the Ronda LUUV (Large Unmanned Underwater Vehicle), which is compatible with the Black Scorpion, providing additional options for maritime operations.

According to Luca Biasci, Program Manager for Swimmer Delivery Vehicles and Unmanned Vehicles at Drass, the partnership between Drass and Leonardo highlights the synergy between two leading companies in underwater technologies. This collaboration addresses the critical requirements for protecting underwater infrastructure while meeting the growing need for deterrence in modern maritime security.

This alliance demonstrates the importance of integrating advanced technologies into robust operational solutions. The Drass DS8 SDV, equipped with the Black Scorpion, represents a significant advancement in addressing anti-submarine warfare and safeguarding maritime zones from coasts to open waters.