DSRV-2 Avalon

DSRV-2 Avalon is a Mystic class Deep Submergence Rescue Vehicle that is rated to dive up to 5000 feet (1500 m). The submarine was acquired in response to the loss of the USS Thresher (SSN-593) so that the Navy would have a way to rescue submarine crews trapped far beneath the ocean surface.

Avalon was launched in 1971. The submarine, intended to be air transportable, was 50 ft long, 8 ft in diameter, and weighed 37 tons. The sub was capable of descending to 5000 ft below the surface and could carry 24 passengers at a time in addition to its crew. The sub was stationed at North Island Naval Station in San Diego and was never required to conduct an actual rescue operation. Avalon was decommissioned in 2000. The submarine may be donated to the Naval Undersea Museum.