Sea mammals help Navy defend against underwater attack

Profile: Life in the Armed Forces, Dec, 2003

SAN DIEGO -- The U.S. Navy has formed a new alliance with dolphins and sea lions in an effort to better protect ships and ports around the world. Much more than your typical Sea World entertainers, these dolphins and sea lions are dedicated Navy sailors, standing watch to deter uninvited guests seeking to harm U.S. ships and ports.

Agile swimmers with keen senses of hearing, dolphins and sea lions are trained to patrol an area in search of underwater intruders. When one is located, they shoot in and attach a spring-loaded clamp that brings the intruder to the surface unharmed to be taken into custody.

The Navy uses bottlenose dolphins and California sea lions, which are marine mammals. Sailors and Navy civilian employees train and care for the animals often developing close relationships.

We build relationships with them through the years. They've learned to trust us and they see that all positive things come from being with us, said Brenda Bryan, head animal trainer for the Navy's Space and Naval Warfare Systems Command, San Diego.

Whenever the teams deploy, an Army veterinarian with a mobile veterinary hospital is sent out with them to provide constant care for the animals. They receive frequent physicals, are inspected daily for nicks and cuts they might receive swimming among the piers and ships, and their diets are strictly monitored. Each sea lion gets a set amount of food each day to make sure it maintains its weight.

The biggest reward of working with these animals is that they're fun to be around and always out to please you, said Bryan. When you're both having a good time, it's just completely fun.

(Editor's Note: Navy Lt. j.g. Josh Frey contributed to this article.)