Real-world inspiration behind Elliot Carver`s stealth ship surfaces on naval technology website

28-Jan-2004 • Bond News

The real-world inspiration behind Elliot Carver`s stealth ship from "Tomorrow Never Dies" has surfaced on a naval technology website.

Since 1997, fans have often believed the ship to be the sole creation of the film`s writing team, but in fact the US Navy had developed such a craft in the mid-1980`s.

The Low Observable Technology website states, "Sea Shadow" is a test craft developed by the Advanced Research Projects Agency (ARPA), the Navy, and Lockheed Martin Skunk Works in the mid-1980`s. Its purpose is to explore a variety of new technologies for surface ships, including ship control, structures, automation for reduced manning and signature control. The ship`s angular design allows for it to have a low radar signature making it almost undetectable by enemy radar.

Sea Shadow incorporates several low observable features. Highly slanted surfaces and radar absorbing material deter radar. Visually, its twin pontoon-like hulls create little wake. Audibly, its diesel electric motors provide a quiet level of sound.

Specifications:
Type: Technology demonstrator
Power Plant: Diesel electric
Prime Contractor: Lockheed Skunkworks
Length: 164 feet
Beam: 68 feet
Crew: 10

Click here for "Tomorrow Never Dies" coverage on MI6.

Thanks to Rumpole for the alert.