German Rotinor Displays Black Shadow Combat Diver Jet with 20 km Range for Special Operations.

German manufacturer Rotinor is promoting its Black Shadow electric diver propulsion device as a low-signature mobility platform for special operations forces, observed at Enforce Tac in Germany. The system expands covert maritime insertion range and payload capacity, offering NATO and potentially U.S. units a scalable alternative to larger swimmer delivery vehicles.

German manufacturer Rotinor is positioning its Black Shadow diver propulsion device as a low-signature mobility multiplier that can move combat divers farther, faster, and with less fatigue, directly expanding the tactical options available for maritime special operations. Army Recognition observed the system at Enforce Tac in Germany, where the Black Shadow’s cockpit display and sensor head underscored a shift in this niche market: diver mobility is no longer just about towing a swimmer, but about delivering a small team with navigation, obstacle awareness, and repeatable mission profiles. Rotinor has publicly listed Enforce Tac among its key event appearances, signaling continued export-driven marketing to police and SOF buyers.
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Rotinor’s Black Shadow is an 8 hp electric diver propulsion device designed for special operations, offering low-signature jet propulsion, integrated sonar navigation, speeds up to 12.5 km/h, a range of around 20 km, and a 60 m dive depth to extend covert maritime insertion, reconnaissance, and underwater assault capabilities (Picture source: Army Recognition Group).

At its core, Black Shadow is a high-performance electric diver propulsion device using Rotinor’s patented E-jet water-jet concept, designed to reduce acoustic and visual signatures compared with combustion-powered craft and to avoid the exposed propellers common to many scooters. The system is described as virtually silent and emission-free, using an impeller to accelerate water through a jet channel. It employs high-energy lithium iron phosphate batteries and a motor rated at 8 hp with ten selectable power levels, supporting controlled speed management from low-observable movement to high-speed transits. Performance figures for the Black Shadow 730 variant indicate output up to 5.9 kW, thrust up to 735 N, top speed up to 12.5 km/h, an average operating time exceeding three hours, and a typical range of around 20 km, with a maximum diving depth of 60 m. The unit weighs approximately 110 kg and measures roughly 1.76 meters in length, positioning it between lightweight single-diver scooters and larger swimmer delivery vehicles.

Rotinor’s design emphasis centers on controllability under load and reducing the cognitive burden of underwater navigation. Twin control grips with piezo sensors and a trigger-based throttle provide intuitive handling, while an automatic emergency stop activates when the trigger is released. The cockpit integrates illuminated TFT displays for power setting, remaining endurance, depth, temperature, and time. A digital bearing scale and target marker support navigation, and integrated sonar imagery enhances obstacle awareness in low-visibility environments. Optional multi-level LED headlights further expand operational usability in confined or turbid waters.

The Black Shadow project reflects a broader modernization trend in combat diver mobility, filling the gap between individual fin swimming and large swimmer delivery vehicles. Earlier iterations already emphasized two-person transport capability and sonar integration at operational depths up to 60 meters. Over time, the system evolved toward greater modularity and deployment flexibility, including concepts for aerial insertion using parachute harnesses and compatibility with submarine torpedo tubes for submerged launch. These features address a critical constraint in maritime special operations: discreet insertion without exposing surface craft near defended coastlines.

The Black Shadow supports three primary mission categories. First, it enables covert reconnaissance and hydrographic surveys by extending approach distances while preserving diver stamina for action at the objective. Second, it enhances offensive combat diving, including ship sabotage, port infrastructure interdiction, and clandestine emplacement of sensors or charges, by allowing teams to arrive less fatigued and with additional payload capacity. Third, it strengthens defensive and constabulary roles such as port security, hull inspection, and underwater explosive ordnance disposal, where sonar-assisted navigation reduces collision risk and compresses search timelines.

At least one confirmed European operator is Poland’s Formoza naval special operations unit, which has procured multiple Black Shadow 730 systems under a multi-million zloty contract. As with many special operations capabilities, the broader user base is not fully public, though the system has been marketed extensively to NATO-aligned forces and law enforcement maritime units. Testing interest from U.S. special operations entities has also been reported in open sources, reflecting demand for improved diver mobility solutions.

Compared with competitors, Black Shadow differentiates itself through its jet-drive architecture, integrated navigation suite, and relatively high sprint speed within the rider-towed DPV class. The U.S.-produced Stidd DPD remains a widely fielded benchmark platform, known for durability and a substantial global user base, but operates at lower top speeds. Italian manufacturer SUEX offers deep-diving and heavy-load configurations that emphasize payload scalability and extended depth envelopes. At the upper end of the spectrum, compact swimmer delivery vehicles such as the Torpedo Seal provide enclosed transport for divers and larger payloads but at significantly higher cost, complexity, and logistical footprint.

For countries seeking to enhance maritime special operations without investing in full-scale SDV fleets, the Black Shadow represents a scalable intermediate solution. It can be integrated into naval special forces, coast guard special units, or even counterterrorism formations responsible for critical maritime infrastructure. By extending underwater reach while maintaining a low acoustic signature, the system contributes directly to deterrence, rapid response, and the survivability of small combat diver teams operating in contested littoral environments.