IMDEX 2025 – DSAV: buoyancy, safety and adaptability for extreme missions by Aqualung
At IMDEX 2025 the Aqualung Group showcased the Diver Shielded Assault Vest (DSAV), a tactical diving waistcoat designed specifically for military divers. It is the first marine a buoyancy waistcoat incorporates a ballistic plate holder, that can be transformed into a land-based tactical waistcoat in just a few seconds
Its main objective is to offer precise control of buoyancy underwater and positive buoyancy on the surface, enabling an injured or unconscious diver to be kept face up. This modularity means it can be used in both marine and land-based operations. It is compatible with Aqualung rebreathers (Mode, Frogs, Amphora, Mk25 and Mk16) and open circuit systems (single or twin cylinders). The DSAV is designed to meet the needs of military, public safety, rescue and emergency response operations.
This waistcoat has a lifting capacity of 127 N (12 kg/28 lbs) and a mass of 3.5 kg (6.6 lbs). The cylinder has a capacity of 2 x 10 l (2 x 80 ft³) at 207 or 300 bar working pressure, while the auxiliary cylinder has a capacity 1of 0.5 l at 200 bar or 2 x 0.21 l at 200 bar (depending on the model). It is also rebreather-compatible with Mode, Frogs, Amphora, MK25 and Mk16.
Its ballast system consists of maximum two 9 kg quick-release ballast pockets made of robust camouflage fabric with soft cut-outs for modularity, a removable plate holder (plates not included) and a single adjustable size. Its inflation system is a power inflator, HP/MP configurations, a non-magnetic version being also available. It features three purge valves (depending on the model), opening at 0.17-0.24 bar and shoulder straps with quick-release buckles, a sturdy carrying handle and a removable external bag.
Its strong points are its ability to switch from diving mode to tactical land waistcoat mode in a matter of seconds, by removing the external cover to leave only the plate-carrying harness, and its design to withstand extreme conditions while remaining lightweight.
It features a MOLLE system for adding accessories, compatible with different rebreathers and cylinders. As safety feature, it keeps the diver face up once surfaced, even if he or she is unconscious.
The DSAV is a versatile piece of equipment, designed to meet the requirements of modern military divers, combining ballistic protection, buoyancy assistance and adaptability to different operational environments.
Photos by J. Roukoz
