What is the primary responsibility of the Remote Vehicle Deck Operator (RVDO) during OOV launch operations?

• A. Initiating the starting of OOV and raising or lowering the mast
• B. Directing ship navigation
• C. Maintaining onboard weapons systems
• D. Conducting post-mission analysis

Answer: (A)

During OOV launch operations, the RVDO is in charge of the deck-level actions that actually bring the unmanned vehicle into the water. The main task is to start the OOV and manage the deployment hardware, specifically commanding the OOV’s power/start sequence and raising or lowering the deployment mast to position and clear the vehicle for launch. This role ensures a safe, smooth transition from deck to water and coordinates with the rest of the launch team to keep everyone clear and ready for the mission.

Directing ship navigation is handled by the bridge or navigator, maintaining onboard weapons systems belongs to the weapons/engineering teams, and post-mission analysis is performed by mission analysts after the operation.