Successful ASQUID flight test

PANAMA CITY, Fla. - Engineers at Naval Surface Warfare Center Panama City (NSWCPC), Fla., recently completed a flight test using an ASQUID that will prevent Navy personnel from having to enter a minefield during mine-hunting and clearing missions. The Airborne Surface Quad Thruster Interface Device (ASQUID) attaches to the side of a MH-60 helicopter. The helo gets into position and ASQUID lowers an MK-18 underwater drone into the water to search for mines, according to Tim Currie, NSWCPC technical program manager. After the mission is completed the helicopter flies over the cleared area and ASQUID retrieves the MK-18. The MK-18 underwater drone searches for mines, but is currently delivered to mine fields using a rigid-hulled inflatable boat. RHIBs are slow, can’t be used in rough water, and puts sailors at risk in dangerous minefields. NSWCPC engineers partnered with Naval Underwater Warfare Center Keyport engineers to perfect the technology and Air Test and Evaluation (HX) 21 MH-60 helicopter test squadron to complete the flight test for certifying the design. ASQUID was a Naval Innovative Science and Engineering-funded project deemed a successful experiment. It will be on display April 25 at the Department of Defense Lab Day in Washington D.C. (Source: NSWCPC 04/11/19)