The Hercules Payload Delivery Vehicle (PDV) is a fully autonomous, modular underwater system designed for multipurpose maritime missions. With a configurable swappable Payload Bay Module (PBM), the Hercules can be switched between roles such as cargo transport, munitions deployment, unmanned diver delivery or as a submarine delivery vehicle (SDV). The platform allows a single hull to support multiple mission sets — making it adaptable, cost-effective and mission-fit for dynamic environments. 

Built for modern undersea operations where flexibility and logistics efficiency matter, this vehicle offers a high-payload capacity, deep-water capability (with further options), and the ability to be customised to the exact requirements of defence, special forces or maritime industry stakeholders.

Key Features 

• Swappable Payload Bay Module (PBM) – The platform allows mission-specific modules to be loaded or removed, enabling rapid re-configuration from cargo transport to munitions launch or diver delivery. 

• High Payload Capacity – The PDV can transport a dry payload of up to 2,000 lbs (≈907 kg), plus an additional 1,000 lbs (≈454 kg) of negative buoyancy payload. 

• Modular Length & Volume Flexibility – The PBM module can vary in length, offering between 115 cubic feet (short hull length approx. 22 ft) and up to 185 cubic feet (approx. 28 ft hull length), with options for even larger configurations. 

• Battery / Power Options – Available in lead-acid, lithium battery and hybrid lithium/hydrogen configurations so you can pick the endurance and operational profile that fits your mission. 

• Deep Water Capability – Rated to 300 ft (≈91 m) depth as standard; deeper ratings available on request, enabling operations in deeper maritime zones.

• Fully Customisable Platform – Tailor the vehicle with external payload mounts, advanced electronics, configurable battery modules, and other mission-specific hardware options. 

• Cost-Effective Multi-Role Solution – A single hull platform with interchangeable modules means reduced inventory, faster turnaround between mission types, and lower lifecycle cost compared to discrete single-role systems.

• Australia covers one of the largest maritime zones globally, including remote offshore islands, deep ocean territories, and long transit distances. The Hercules PDV offers a solution capable of meeting these demands: high payload, configurable mission modules and underwater capability suited for regional defence, special forces, marine logistics, and offshore industry tasks.

• For Defence and Special Operations in Australia, the modular architecture supports rapidly changing mission requirements, from diver delivery and maritime interdiction to unmanned cargo transport or munitions deployment in the Indo-Pacific environment.

• In offshore and commercial use-cases (such as servicing remote platforms, subsea logistics, deep-water asset deployment), the high payload capacity, modular configuration and battery options provide a flexible tool aligned with Australian operational doctrine.

• Apollo Australia, as the Australian distributor, can provide local support, logistics, training and integration tailored to the Australian market. Reducing supply chain risk and ensuring compatibility with Australian defence and maritime compliances.