WO2012051604A2

WO2012051604A2 - Underwater neutralization system

Info

Publication number: WO2012051604A2
Application number: PCT/US2011/056482
Authority: WO
Inventors: Mark Benson
Original assignee: Mark Benson
Priority date: 2010-10-15
Filing date: 2011-10-14
Publication date: 2012-04-19
Also published as: WO2012051604A3

Abstract

The current invention concerns an apparatus and a method for neutralizing underwater naval mines, limpet mines, or underwater improvised explosive devices. The apparatus includes a housing, a barrel to accommodate a projectile, a handling and positioning system and at least one alignment tool connected to the housing and configured to align the underwater neutralization device with an explosive target.

Description

UNDERWATER NEUTRALIZATION SYSTEM

TECHNICAL FIELD

[0001] Embodiments of the present invention relate to the technical field of bomb disrupting and the neutralization of explosive devices. More particularly, the embodiments of the inventions are directed to an apparatus and method for neutralizing underwater naval mines, limpet mines, or underwater improvised explosive devices,

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0002] A naval mine is a type of mine usually emplaced by aircraft, surface vessel, or submarine. These types of mines consist of bottom mines, floating mines, and moored mines. Often times, the exterior features and geometric shapes of naval mines are determined by their method of emplacement. As an example, submarines primarily deliver naval mines via a torpedo tube. This delivery method confines the external diameter of a series of naval mines delivered by a submarine to the diameter of the torpedo tube. Such relationships may also exist for naval mines that are delivered via aircraft and surface vessels.

[0003] A limpet mine is a type of naval mine typically emplaced by a diver on a target surface and is therefore designed to be slightly negatively buoyant, making them easy to handle underwater. The sizes, emplacement location, and number of devices utilized by the miner are extremely versatile.

[0004] An underwater improvised explosive device is an explosive device that is constructed of homemade explosives or conventional military ordnance, and is modified to be delivered by nonconventional military methods. Due to the varying methods of emplacement, underwater improvised explosive devices lack external geometric patterns. [0005] Underwater mines and other underwater explosive devices generally have a detonation control system or mechanism for firing that is located some discrete distance from the mine's explosive material. For example, numerous underwater explosive devices are set off by a timed device, or time fuze. They may also have anti-handling devices, making the mine explode if tampered with or removed from the target, such as the hull of a targeted vessel. The accurate destruction of the mechanical device(s) that control these functions may prevent the underwater explosive device from working as designed. "Defeating" or "neutralizing" the explosive device from being able to function as designed is a term used in the explosive ordnance disposal field to mean "rendering safe."

[0006] Current techniques utilized to neutralize underwater explosive devices and in some instances separate them from a target or ship, put exceptional risk on the divers searching for the suspected device(s) and those who are responsible for carrying out procedures in order to neutralize and remove the device from the target or vessel. Divers conducting countermine operations in harbors and open waters are also put at exceptional risk.

[0007] Recent advances in technology make it possible for a miniature underwater remotely operated vehicle (ROV) to drive on the hull of a vessel or fly in open waters to depths in excess of three hundred meters. Currently, however, the personnel responsible for carrying out these tasks are limited by the remote procedures and neutralization capabilities due to the lack of proper tools and methods for removing or neutralizing underwater explosive devices. Although powerheads, bangsticks, and shark stick type devices provide neutralization capabilities, such tools are limited with their ability to accurately target internal components and remain prone to accidental collisions that present unsafe firing sequences or premature detonations.

[0008] Accordingly, a solution is needed that will enable personnel to neutralize an explosive device underwater utilizing a ROV. Furthermore, a solution is needed that can enable a tool to be left in a firing position, or stand-alone position, in order to preserve the functionality of the robot in the event of a premature explosive detonation. Remotely firing a tool and creating a method to neutralize, for example, a limpet mine from the hull of the ship without a diver having to enter the water will reduce risk and enhance the response capabilities to such events.

[0009] Furthermore, the term recoil is used to describe the rearward motion of a gun upon firing. In order to reduce and mitigate the recoil, gun systems can be designed to use recoil management systems that channel expanding gases of a projectile to offset the directional forces of the recoil. Such techniques are difficult to accomplish in underwater gun systems due to the fact that the expanding gases must exit chambers that are required to be water tight, In addition, such recoil management systems require additional chambers, material, and volume. None of these attributes are advantageous for miniature remotely operated vehicles,

[0010] A solution is further needed for a recoil management system that will not only allow for the tool to be fired from the ROV itself, but will enable the tool to be fired while mounted on the ROV without damaging the structural integrity of the ROV or the sensitive systems mounted upon it. The recoil management system must be a lightweight design, result in minimal volumetric changes to the system, and have a minimal impact on the performance characteristics of the ROV.

BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0011] One embodiment of the present invention is an underwater neutralization system that is placed within the vicinity of an underwater mine or explosive device in order to neutralize the mine or explosive device.

[0012] Another embodiment of the present invention is an underwater neutralization system that may be attached to the body or an arm of the underwater ROV in order to allow it to be fired from the robotic platform.

[0013] Still another embodiment of the present invention provides an alignment tool that allows for precision shot placement of a projectile to be used against the internal detonation control system or mechanism of underwater explosive devices. Many underwater explosive devices have known and/or set shapes. The internal detonation control system or mechanism is known to occur in a set area based upon (1) the contour of the mine and/or (2) the height of the mine as measured from the placement on the target substrate to the exterior of the explosive device itself. The alignment tool enables an accurate disruption of internal components to render the device safe by utilizing a missile type object propelled from the release of rapidly expanding gases to destroy that internal detonation control system or mechanism.

[0014] Yet another embodiment of the invention provides an alignment tool that allows the shot placement of a projectile to be used against the external protective casing of a mine. An example of this type of alignment tool is one where the alignment tool has a diameter identical to the torpedo tube from which the mine was delivered.

[0015] A further embodiment of the invention provides a water tight air void within the alignment tool in order to allow the missile type object propelled from the release of rapidly expanding gases to travel to the surface of the intended underwater explosive device without penetrating a volume of water.

[0016] A further embodiment of the invention targets the internal features of an explosive device utilizing robot mounted sensors, such as acoustic sonars. With the ability to locate internal features with sensors located on the robot, the robot operator can manipulate the arm of the robot to align the underwater neutralization system in order to conduct a precision shot through the exterior skin of the target.

[0017] A further embodiment of the invention targets known internal targets of an explosive device while mounted on an articulating arm of a robotic system. Software available for articulating arms makes it possible to aim the underwater neutralization tool at a reference point, or coordinate, in space. Such a coordinate may be preselected for known targets in order to target internal features. [0018] A still further embodiment of the invention is used under the hull of a ship or where tool placement is possible utilizing magnets. Examples of these locations include, but are not limited to, targets such as quay walls, oil platforms, fuel lines or underwater tunnels. If no metal surface is available, the invention need not be adhered in the vicinity of the explosive device, but can be fired from the underwater ROV itself.

[0019] Yet a further embodiment of the invention provides housings that contain the barrel of the disruption tool, alignment tool, and an energy absorber, as well as support for the interface for the method of attachment.

[0020] Still another embodiment of the invention provides magnets that are mechanically set into place by the mechanical release of the remote operated vehicle gripper.

[0021] Still another embodiment of the invention utilizes material as a recoil management system. For example, open celled foam is a lightweight, low volumetric solution for energy absorption and open celled foam may be altered in a number of ways in order to reduce recoil forces.

[0022] Still another embodiment of the invention provides those responsible for carrying out neutralization operations with multiple housings and alignment tool configurations and provides additional housings and alignment tools as needed over time in order to meet the versatility of mines,

[0023] Still another embodiment of the invention provides a method for leaving the underwater disruption system in the vicinity of the hazardous device by utilizing a buoyancy control system. Such a method ensures that the underwater neutralization system can be modified between different robot systems and can account for the water densities in which it is placed. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0024] The present invention is described in detail below with reference to the attached drawings figures, wherein:

[0025] FIG. 1A is a diagram of the underwater neutralization system 1A attached to the arm of a robot arm 26 and aligned for firing into a bottom mine 27 in accordance with the present invention.

[0026] FIG. IB is a diagram of the underwater neutralization system configured IB as a standalone system and aligned for firing against an underwater explosive device 28.

[0027] FIG. 1C is a diagram of the underwater neutralization system shown to be configured as a stand-alone system and aligned for firing against a limpet device 29.

[0028] FIG. 2 is a transparent perspective view of the underwater neutralization system 1A with the optional robotic arm mounted housing 2A and optional cylindrical alignment tool 7A in accordance with the present invention.

[0030] FIG. 3 is a perspective view of the underwater neutralization system with the optional stand -alone housing 2B and optional limpet alignment tool 7B in accordance with the present invention.

[0031] FIG. 4A is a transparent perspective view of the optional cylindrical alignment tool 7 A that may be attached to the robotic arm mounted housing 2A in accordance with the present invention.

[0032] FIG. 4B is a transparent perspective view of the optional limpet alignment tool 7B that may be attached to the stand-alone housing 2B in accordance with the present invention.

[0033] FIG. 4C is a perspective transparent view of the optional general alignment tool 7C that may be attached to the stand-alone housing 2B in accordance with the present invention. [0035] FIG. 5A is a perspective view of the optional magnet retraction system 16 that may be attached to the stand-alone housing 2B in accordance with the present invention,

[0036] FIG. 5B is a perspective view of the optional support grip 20 that may be attached to the housing 2B in accordance with the present invention.

[0037] FIG. 6A is a side transparent view of the optional stand-alone housing 2B in accordance with the present invention.

[0038] FIG. 6B is a top transparent view of the optional stand-alone housing 2B in accordance with the present invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0039] Referring now to the invention in more detail, FIGs. 1A-1C illustrate three embodiments, 1A, IB, and 1C of the underwater neutralization system according to the present invention, each having an optional housing (2A/2B), a barrel 3, a housing cap 4, an open celled foam energy absorber 31, a breach cap 30 30 and an optional alignment tool (7A/7B/7C),

[0040] In FIG, 1A to FIG. 1C, three embodiments of the underwater neutralization system according to the present invention, the underwater neutralization systems 1A, IB, and 1C, are shown in operating position prior to the initiation system 6 being fired from the point of initiation. The underwater neutralization system 1A shown in FIG. 1A is a robot mounted configuration and is provided with a robot mounted housing 2A and a robot mounted alignment tool 7A. The underwater neutralization system IB shown in FIG. IB is a stand-alone configuration and is provided with a stand-alone housing 2B, a general alignment tool 7C, and a non-magnetic robot grip 20. The underwater neutralization system 1C shown in FIG. 1C is another stand-alone configuration and is provided with a stand-alone housing 2B, a limpet alignment tool 7B, and a magnetic retraction system 16.

[0041] FIG. 2 illustrates a perspective view of the underwater neutralization system 1A in the robot mounted configuration. The robot mounted configuration 1 A includes a robot mounted housing 2A, a barrel 3, a housing cap 4, an open celled foam energy absorber 31, a breach cap 30, a robot mounted alignment tool 7A, a chamber 8, a barrel support channel 9, a robot connection point 10, and an alignment tool connection point 11.

[0042] The underwater neutralization system 1A includes the robot mounted housing 2A, The robot mounted housing 2A may be made of high strength-to-weight ratio materials including, but not limited to, plastic or carbon composites. The robot mounted housing 2A is a cylindrical body with an inner and outer wall, and has a barrel support channel 9, at least one robot connection point 10, and at least one alignment tool connection point 11. The robot mounted housing 2A is used to support the static and dynamic forces in order to support the underwater neutralization system 1A during targeting and firing. These forces are transferred to the assembly by the barrel support channel 9, which has wall features that align with the barrel 3 of the underwater neutralization system 1A. The robot mounted housing 2A is connected to the robot arm 26, at the robot connection point 10, which has threads or similar connecting variations. The optional robot mounted alignment tool 7A is attached at the alignment tool connection point 11, The alignment tool connection point 11 allows for attachment of numerous alignment tools with varying external alignments,

[0043] Features of the underwater neutralization system presented in FIGs. 1A, IB, 1C and 2 are similar for both the robot mounted configuration and the stand-alone configuration. The underwater neutralization system (1 A/1B/1C) illustrated in FIGs. 1 A-1C comprises a barrel 3, housing cap 4, a breach cap 30, and an open celled foam energy absorber 31, The barrel 3 and breach cap 30 may be standard gun components that may be manufactured with, but not limited in to, stainless steel, titanium or combinations thereof, The barrel 3 has an inner and outer wall with wall thicknesses to sustain the blast of an explosive cartridge and/or projectile. The barrel 3 includes a chamber 8, which is used to hold a cartridge in firing position. The breach cap 30 attaches to the barrel 3 via threads in order to secure the cartridge into position. The housing cap 4 is a hollow cylindrical body with a threaded end cap that is used to provide water tight integrity to the underwater neutralization system, The housing cap 4 also serves as a static wall in order to absorb the crushing effects of the open celled foam energy absorber 31. For this reason, the housing cap 4 must also be made of high weight-to-strength ratio materials similar to the robot mounted housing 2A.

[0044] The open celled foam energy absorber 31 is a cylindrical body that fits into the housing cap 4 of the underwater neutralization system according to the present invention and is made of highly porous material. Such materials include lightweight metals such as aluminum, but carbon composites or plastic polymers can also be used. As an energetic dampener, open celled foam reduces the kinetic energy transferred to the robotic platform by catching the rearward motion of the barrel 3 and breach cap 30 upon initiation. This is done through the collapse of the material cells along a predicted stress-strain curve. For underwater systems, the open celled foam energy absorber 31 is effective due to its weight and minimal volumetric makeup as compared to gas recoil management systems.

[0045] FIG. 3 illustrate a perspective view of the underwater neutralization system 1C. The underwater neutralization system includes a stand-alone housing 2B, a barrel 3, a housing cap 4, a breach cap 30, an open celled foam energy absorber 31, a magnet 12, a magnetic retraction system 16, an alignment tool connection point 11, and an optional limpet alignment tool 7B. The standalone configuration 1C illustrated in FIG, 3 is designed to be emplaced by a ROV and left in a firing position while the robot retreats to a safe distance. The magnetic retraction system 16 that comprises a mechanically retracting magnet 12, and a magnetic system support housing 32 enables the stand alone configuration of the underwater neutralization system 1C to be positioned by the ROV on a magnetic surface utilizing the open and closing features of the ROV gripper, which is a functional feature currently available on ROV systems. [0046] FIGs. 4A to 4C illustrate perspective views of three embodiments of the alignment tool according to the present invention: the robot mounted alignment tool 7A, the general alignment tool 7B, and the limpet alignment tool 7C. The alignment tools 7A, 7B_} and 7C are used to align the underwater neutralization system (1A/1B/1C) with internal targets or the external features of the mine casings. The alignment tool (7A/7B/7C) maintains a watertight seal with the housing (2A/2B), and does so to provide an air void for the projectile to travel across in route to the intended target. This projectile channel 15 has a diameter that aligns firmly around the barrel 3 of the underwater neutralization system (1A/1B/1C), and uses at least one o-ring within at least one o- ring groove 14 to ensure that the alignment tool 7 remains water tight. The alignment tool (7A/7B/7C) is connected to the housing (2A/2B) of the underwater neutralization system (1A/1B/1C) using at least one alignment securing hole 13. The alignment tool (7A/7B/7C) is constructed of material similar to that of the housing (2A/2B)

[0047] The embodiment of F1G.4A illustrates the robot mounted alignment tool 7A that includes at least one alignment securing hole 13, at least one o-ring groove 14, and the projectile channel 15, The robot mounted alignment tool 7A is used for the robot mounted underwater neutralization system 1A. The alignment tool 7A may have a variety of geometries that coincide with the external geometries of the target surface. As an example, a nineteen inch diameter alignment tool may be used against the MK 48 series of torpedoes which have a nineteen inch diameter. In addition, the alignment tool 7A may have the same geometric attributes for use against a drifting mine, where a stand-alone configuration IB is unable to be deployed.

[0048] FIG. 4B illustrates the limpet alignment tool 7B, The limpet alignment tool 7B includes at least one alignment securing hole 13, at least one o-ring groove 14, and the projectile channel 15. The limpet alignment tool 7B may be used on the stand-alone configuration IB, although similar designs may be altered for use on the robot mounted configuration 1 A, Numerous variations of the limpet alignment tool 7B are possible in order to target the wide variety of limpet mines that currently exist in the miner's inventory. [0049] FIG. 4C illustrates the general alignment tool 7C. The general alignment tool 7C includes at least one alignment securing hole 13, at least one o-ring groove 14, and the projectile channel 15. The general alignment tool 7C may be used on the stand-alone underwater neutralization system IB or similar configurations may be used on the robot mounted configuration 1A. The general alignment tool 7C may be used against surfaces that are relatively flat such as box shaped improvised explosive devices,

[0050] FIG. 5A illustrates the magnetic retraction system 16. The magnetic retraction system 16 is a system that mechanically lowers and raises the magnet 12 from the stand-alone housing 2B through the use of mechanical links and pulleys located within the mechanical linkage housing 18 and activated when the ROV gripper compresses the push pad 17 located on one face of the mechanical linkage housing 18. The magnetic retraction system 16 is a simple mechanical system that may be used repeatedly in order to position the stand-alone housing 2B within the vicinity of the intended target.

[0051] FIG. 5B illustrates the robot grip mount 20. For operations that may utilize a stand-alone housing 2B, the robot grip mount 20 may be attached to the stand-alone housing 2B in place of the magnetic retraction system 16. The robot grip mount 20 is merely a location that the ROV gripper can control the underwater neutralization system (1A/1B/1C) from and release when in proper position.

[0052] FIG. 6A and 6B illustrate the stand-alone housing 2B. In addition to the similar embodiments of the robot mounted housing 2A such as the barrel support 9 and the alignment tool connection point 11, the stand-alone housing 2B includes a buoyancy control void 23, the robot grip mount assembly 24, and the mechanical linkage channel 25. The stand-alone housing 2B is similar in material to the robot mounted housing 2A and is beneficial in that it allows firing of the underwater neutralization system (1B/1C) without having to put the ROV in jeopardy of sustaining damage or complete destruction in the event of an underwater explosive event. [0053] The stand-alone housing 2B is designed to support a modular concept, that is, it is able to be modified to meet mission requirements by altering the attachments that secure onto the body of the stand-alone housing 2B that may include: the alignment tool (7A/7B/7C), the mechanical retraction system 16, the magnet 12, and the robot grip mount 20. In addition, the buoyancy of the standalone housing 2B may be modified by adding weights within the buoyancy control void 23 in order to meet changing water densities.

[0054] One advantage of the present invention includes, withoiit limitation, the safety afforded a diver by utilizing remote means to neutralize an underwater explosive device. Furthermore, the ability to place the underwater neutralization system with a remote operated vehicle or fire it from an ROV reduces the risks of an underwater explosive device detonating while a diver is in the water.

[0055] In addition, the use of an underwater neutralization device utilizing a remote operated vehicle reduces the risks of diver related mishaps associated with normal diving operations. The versatility of the underwater neutralization system meets the versatility of the mission required; that is, each situation involving emplaced explosive devices is unique and the configuration of the underwater neutralization system can be configured to meet the requirements for each emplacement location and most explosive devices encountered.

[0056] In summary, the present invention is an underwater neutralization system that can be used to precisely target components within a underwater explosive device. The system may be used to target mine casings where target components are either known or unknown, or may even be used for offensive operations.

Operation of Device

[0057] Prior to the deployment of the underwater neutralization system , the ROV operator must determine the method of emplacement, the series of explosive device, known vulnerabilities of the explosive device, or other features that may be present with regards to the explosive device. The ROV operator may then select the appropriate embodiment of the current invention that may be utilized in order to neutralize the explosive device.

[0058] When available, the ROV operator may also utilize information provided by sensors mounted to the ROV platform in order to ascertain vulnerability information of the explosive device. Such sensors may allow the operator to determine internal features that could be targeted in order to complete neutralization operations.

[0059] The ability of the ROV operator to positively identify the explosive device may also allow the underwater neutralization system to be aligned with the internal features within the explosive device by use of articulating arm software. Such an alignment is possible because software associated with the articulating movements of a ROV arm can orientate the underwater neutralization system toward a coordinate in space that corresponds to the target component or vulnerability.

[0060] The ROV operator may choose from three basic scenarios in order to deploy the underwater neutralization system . First, the explosive device may be located on the hull of a ship. For this configuration, the ROV operator may utilize the stand-alone configuration 1C which includes the stand-alone housing 2B, the magnetic retraction system 16, and the alignment tool (7A/7B/7C)which corresponds to the external geometry of the known explosive device.

[0061] Secondly, the explosive device may be located on the seabed or similar location where a stand-alone configuration IB may be utilized. Scenarios where this may apply would include a proud mine; that is, part of the mine is exposed above the seafloor. This exposure would allow the operator the opportunity to fire a projectile into the mine body. With this configuration, the operator would utilize the robot grip mount 20, increase the buoyancy by adding weight to the buoyancy control void 23, and attach an alignment tool (7A/7B/7C) that corresponds to the external features of the target, [0062] Third, the explosive device may be located in a location that would inhibit the use of the stand-alone configuration IB or 1C. Examples of when the robot mounted configuration 1A would be beneficial include: drifting mines, moored mines, and offensive operations against underwater targets such as hydrophones, pipe lines, or critical infrastructure. Limpet mines emplaced where a stand-alone housing 2B would be unable to be placed would also provide a reasonable opportunity for the robot mounted configuration as illustrated in FIG. 1A to be used.

[0063] In both the stand-alone and robot mounted embodiments, the underwater neutralization system is loaded with a shotgun shell type cartridge that fires a slug or may fire a similar item as outlined in US Patent 4,779,51 1. Other embodiments of the current design may include gun type systems that utilize powerhead, shark stick, or bangstick projectile devices. These devices typically fire upon making contact with the intended target.

[0064] Once the configuration of the underwater neutralization system is selected, the operator may attach the alignment tool, and corresponding embodiments of the system chosen. He or she may than insert the projectile into the chamber 8 and secure the projectile into position by threading shut the breach cap 30. The barrel 3 may then be inserted into the barrel channel 9 of the housing (2A/2B). Once placed into position, the operator threads on the housing cap 4 onto the housing (2A/2B). ensuring that the foam energy absorber 31 is between the housing cap 4 and breach cap 30.

[0065] The ROV operator then integrates the selected underwater neutralization system into the ROV gripper, the body of the ROV, or the arm of the ROV depending on the embodiments chosen.

[0066] The selected underwater neutralization system is then placed into position remotely by using the ROV. For the stand-alone configuration IB, the ROV may place the stand-alone housing 2B so that the alignment tool is in close proximity to the target. Once in position, the ROV operator opens the grip of the ROV in order to release the underwater neutralization system in the proper position. If the position is deemed to be incorrect, the ROV operator may reattach the gripper of the ROV to the stand-alone housing 2B and reposition the system as necessary. Once placed in the vicinity of the target, the robot retreats to a safe distance prior to firing.

[0067] The robot mounted configuration 1A is flown or driven into position and fired from the robot while the alignment tool is in position,

[0068] Upon firing, the projectile fired travels through the enclosed air void of the barrel 3 and the projectile channel 15 that is included in the alignment devices 7A, 7B, and 7C without experiencing the hydrodynamic effects of the water column. The alignment devices 7A, 7B, and 7C allow the operator to fire a projectile in order to disrupt, neutralize, or render safe the intended target by destroying the internal components required for detonation.

[0069] Upon completion of the firing sequence, the ROV may be used to inspect the neutralization shot. Further ROV operations may include the collection of components, the removal of the explosive device from the target surface, or secondary neutralization attempts.

[0070] Those of ordinary skill will understand and appreciate the existence of variations, combinations, and equivalents of the specific embodiment, method, and examples herein. The invention should therefore not be limited by the above described embodiments, methods, and examples, but by all embodiments and methods within the scope and spirit of the invention and defined by the following claims.

Claims

What is claimed is:

1. An underwater neutralization device for disrupting an explosive target, the underwater neutralization device comprising:

at least one housing;

a barrel located within the housing and configured to accommodate a projectile to be initiated;

a handling and positioning system attached to the housing; and

at least one alignment tool connected to the housing and configured to align the underwater neutralization device with the explosive target,

2. The underwater neutralization device of claim 1, wherein the at least one alignment tool comprises a projectile channel with a diameter thereof corresponding to a circumference of the barrel, the projectile channel being configured to be aligned with the barrel for the projectile to travel through.

3. The underwater neutralization device of claim 2, wherein the at least one alignment tool further comprises a watertight seal so as to provide a watertight air void within the at least one alignment tool.

4. The underwater neutralization device of claim 3, wherein the watertight seal comprises at least an O-ring groove.

5. The underwater neutralization device of claim 1 , wherein the at least one alignment tool has variable geometries to coincide with an external geometry of the explosive target.

6, The underwater neutralization device of claim 1, further comprising an initiating system configured to initiate the projectile, and a recoil management system configured to absorb recoil forces upon initiation.

7 The underwater neutralization device of claim 1, further comprising a buoyancy control system configured to mechanically change a buoyancy of the underwater neutralization device.

8, The underwater neutralization device of claim 1 is configured to be attached to an underwater remotely operated vehicle (ROV) and mechanically manipulated by the underwater ROV via the handling and positioning system, so that the underwater neutralization device can be placed or relocated to an intended location,

9, The underwater neutralization device of claim 8, wherein the handling and positioning system is a mechanical magnetic retraction system comprising at least one retracting magnet and mechanical linkage housing with a push pad attached thereto, and wherein the housing further comprises a mechanical linkage channel, and the push pad is structurally configured to mechanically move the at least one retracting magnet via the mechanical linkage housing and the mechanical linkage channel,

10. The underwater neutralization device of claim 8, wherein the handling and positioning system includes a robot grip mount configured to be attached to the housing,

11. An underwater neutralization device comprising:

a housing;

a barrel located within the housing and configured to accommodate a projectile to be initiated; and

a tool located on the housing and structurally configured to enable the underwater neutralization device to neutralize an explosive device upon initiation of the projectile.

12. The underwater neutralization device of claim 1 1, wherein the tool is an alignment tool configured to align the underwater neutralization device with the explosive device, the alignment tool including a projectile channel configured to be aligned with the barrel for the projectile to travel through,

13. The underwater neutralization device of claim 12, the alignment tool comprises a watertight seal so as to provide a watertight air void for the projectile to travel through.

14. The underwater neutralization device of claim 12, wherein the alignment tool has variable geometries to coincide with an external geometry of the explosive target.

15. The underwater neutralization device of claim 11, wherein the housing comprises an attaching device and the underwater neutralization device is mechanically configured to be attached to a robot via the attaching device so that the underwater neutralization device is capable of being manipulated by the robot.

16. The underwater neutralization device of claim 12, wherein the alignment tool has a diameter substantially identical to a diameter of a delivering tube from which the explosive device is delivered, so that the underwater neutralization device can neutralize an explosive device by destroying an external protective casing upon initiation of the projectile.

17. The underwater neutralization device of claim 1 1, wherein the housing comprises a housing cap, and an energy absorption device fitted within the housing cap.

18. The underwater neutralization device of claim 17, wherein the energy absorption device is an open celled foam energy absorber.

19. The underwater neutralization device of claim 17, wherein the housing cap has a threaded end and is configured to provide water tight integrity to the underwater neutralization device.

20. The underwater neutralization device of claim 17, further comprising an initiating system configured to initiate the projectile, the initiating system being an electrically initiating device including a firing electrode creating electrical continuity between the projectile and a firing system.