JFD Global develops advanced medical monitoring system
James Fisher Defence (JFD Global) has commenced a project to deliver to the Submarine Delivery Agency (SDA) - a new medical monitoring capability for integration into the NATO Submarine Rescue System (NSRS).
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Image courtesy James Fisher Defence (JFD Global)
The innovation marks a major upgrade to the NSRS’s existing capability, expanding capacity from monitoring four submariners to up to 76, including medical personnel, during rescue operations. Continuous, real-time monitoring begins the moment submariners enter the Deck Decompression Chamber (DDC) on the rescue vessel, with data instantly accessible to onboard medics and shore-based medical teams. This enables faster response times, more accurate triage and improved treatment outcomes in highly demanding clinical scenarios.
The system uses a three-tier approach: wearable devices to track key indicators such as heart rate, stress, fatigue and core temperature; diagnostic tools including ECG monitors and ultrasound; and advanced critical care equipment for unstable or deteriorating casualties. Data hubs, connected to more than 100 certified medical components, ensure automated, accurate monitoring and can link via satellite for remote medical support.
The modular platform can be integrated across submarine escape and rescue systems and adapted for other defence and commercial diving operations. Complementary defence applications include submarine platforms, distressed submarine (DISSUB) entry kits, dive recompression chambers, and surface vessels.
Richard Devlin, Defence Director at JFD Global said: “This development represents an innovative step change in how we safeguard the lives of submariners in rescue situations. By combining wearable technology with integrated diagnostics and real-time data sharing, the medics can detect issues earlier, respond faster and give crews the very best chance of recovery. Safety has always been our number one priority, and this new capability strengthens that commitment.”
Surgeon Commander Simon Phillips, Defence Consultant Advisor in Diving and Hyperbaric Medicine and Head of Diving Medicine at the Institute of Naval Medicine (INM) said: “The new medical monitoring system set to be developed for NSRS is a significant enhancement over existing medical equipment used previously. It will ultimately improve care for all rescued submariners and will help to support the medical and rescue teams.”
Captain Mike Lyons RN, Head of Submarine Programmes for In-Service Submarines within the SDA and the Operational Duty Holder for the NSRS said:“I am delighted that this work can commence as it will increase capability in how we can recognise potential injuries for rescued submariners. Although the chances of needing rescue remain extremely low, we must ensure that the system is best prepared to meet all realistic challenges that it may face.”
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