Normally I’m not exactly a fan of being in the water unless it’s in a swimming pool that’s no more than ten feet deep. The thought of being in the open ocean with 10’s if not 100’s of feet of water below me is not a happy or comforting one. With that being said, I can always learn to get used to the water if it means that I get to play with such a cool device as the Underwater Aquatic Thrusters.
The Underwater Aquatic Thrusters have a patented diver propulsion system which is currently being used by the US military for combat swimming applications but is now also available to you. With this device, you essentially become dolphin-like. If you don’t like dolphins, pretend you’re an underwater superhero like Iron Man and Superman or even better, Merman.
The Aquatic Thrusters In Action
The system uses twin six-inch diameter thrusters which mount to the outside of the diver’s lower thighs just above the knees. The power source and settings for the throttle are secured around the waist of the diver. The entire device is compatible with commercial diving gear so no need to get any military grade diving gear. Once in the water, you can reach speeds of 3.5 knots underwater and the brush less electric motors are able to provide a virtually silent propulsion.
The system here provides a hands-free operation unlike other systems on the market which is why it is a preferred by the military for operations relating to search and rescue, reconnaissance, and hull inspections. Because it’s hands-free, it also makes it an ideal system to use for snorkeling and leisure diving. The lithium-ion battery is able to provide a range of just over two miles but an extra battery can be “hot swapped” very easily to extend the range.
As awesome as the system is, it’s not exactly easy to get your hands on this setup. First of all, it’s only available from Hammacher Schlemmer website. Secondly, you have to be a US citizen and within residing withing US territorial waters. And lastly, because of its advanced design, the purchase does require approval from the US Department of State.
If those three things weren’t enough, the price is really steep as well costing a cool $31,500.
