U.S. Coast Guard and U.S. Navy interdict two semi-submersible vessels

A self-propelled, semi-submersible craft was seized Tuesday, Sept. 16, 2008. The craft was seized by Coast Guard during a joint operation with the USS McInerney in the Eastern Pacific Ocean. The vessel can also travel from Ecuador to San Diego, Calif., without having to stop for replenishment. (U.S. Coast Guard)

USCG Press Release

In what seems to be something straight out of a Jules Verne novel, the Coast Guard and Navy have interdicted two vessels that are termed self-propelled, semi-submersibles.  Essentially these are boats that are desgned to have a very small profile above water to avoid radar and visual detection.  They are used to run drugs (cocaine specifically) up the coast from South and Central American to Mexico or San Diego, CA and are increasingly used by drug runners as the vehicle of choice in getting their product from down South to the U.S. and Mexico.  This is a clear example as to the extent drug dealers are willing to go to in order to move their product.

AP Photo/US Navy - Nico FigueroaIn this image provided by the US Navy the guided-missile frigate USS McInerney tows a self-propelled, semi-submersible craft seized Saturday, Sept. 13, 2008. The submarine-like carried almost seven tons of cocaine and was seized during a night raid. (AP Photo/US Navy - Justin Cooper).