What is the MK-16 Mod 1 UBA?

• A. A computerized, closed-circuit mixed-gas rebreather that allows EOD technicians to dive up to 300 feet
• B. A standard open-circuit scuba set
• C. A surface-supplied air system
• D. A drysuit with nitrox mix

Answer: (A)

The MK-16 Mod 1 UBA is a closed-circuit Underwater Breathing Apparatus used by Navy EOD divers. It recycles breathing gas rather than venting it with each breath, scrubs CO2, and adds the right mix of gas to keep the partial pressure of oxygen safe as depth changes. The system is computer-controlled, automatically managing the gas composition so divers can stay down longer and at greater depths—up to about 300 feet—while using gas more efficiently and producing fewer bubbles than open-circuit systems. This differentiates it from a standard open-circuit scuba set, a surface-supplied air system, or a drysuit with nitrox, all of which do not provide the closed-circuit, mixed-gas rebreathing capability of the MK-16 Mod 1 UBA.