The spy who inspired me... Bond’s aquatic car is real!
IT WAS inspired by 007 films and promises to epitomise Global Britain ambitions.
VICTA, a combined speedboat and submarine that can secretly deliver Special Forces to enemy shores, began sea trials last week.
And with Portsmouth-based manufacturer Subsea Craft already taking orders, defence ministries worldwide – including the MOD – are paying close attention.
The £10million craft is described as the world’s only “next generation diver delivery system” and bristles with innovation.
On the surface, its diesel-powered engine and powerful water jets can achieve an astonishing 40 knots (46mph) top speed and it has a range of 250 nautical miles.
But it is when approaching a target that VICTA comes to the fore. With the press of a button it submerges, water fills its tanks and the cabin, where eight SBS operatives – including a pilot and co-pilot – are wearing breathing apparatus and ready for action.
Its Global Britain credentials go beyond its military application, however, with technological breakthroughs provided by some of the UK’S most innovative firms.
The sleek design and carbon fibre shell is the brainchild of BAR Technologies, the firm founded by British yachting champion Sir
Ben Ainslie. A bespoke navigation system is provided by Surrey-based Sonardyne.
And VICTA’S aircraft-like fly-by-wire system was created by UK firm SCISYS.
Subsea CEO Scott Verney says: “While our key market is defence, that’s not to say we don’t have interest elsewhere, from the offshore/onshore energy sector, scientific research and even extreme sports.”
Ben Murray, CEO of industry body
Maritime UK, added: “This is exactly the niche, high-value innovation that will drive Global Britain forward.”