The SCV Light Collars, along with illuminated batons, marketed under the Westinghouse licensing agreement are to be included in Crash Bags used by all U.S. Navy submarine crewmembers.
According to Michael Holmes, Submarine Escape and Rescue Project Manager for the Naval Sea Systems Command, "These lighted collars are a critical piece of survival equipment for use in the extreme case of a disabled submarine.
"Until now, we didn't have a reliable product that would remain lighted and also withstand the rigors of depth, water pressure, and repeated cycles of intense underwater pressurization and depressurization to help sailors escape from a disabled submarine."
The SCV Light Collar illuminates the area where sailors plug in their hoses allowing the inflation of their escape suits while providing breathable air to the sailor. The lights will also be used to illuminate escape hatches.
This device has a universal fit to accommodate all U.S. and NATO submarines using the Submarine Escape and Immersion Equipment (SEIE) Mark 10.
The SCV Light Collars will enable the U.S. Navy and NATO fleets to implement more realistic escape training as they upgrade all submarines with more modern escape equipment. "Since no product like this ever existed before, we are very proud of this accomplishment," said Carl Scianna, President of PolyBrite.
"We hope that no sailor ever has to use these devices outside of training exercises, but in an actual escape situation, we are confident that our SCV Light Collar will help save lives."