Why UUVs cannot automatically replace midget submarines

Why build crewed midget submarines when uncrewed underwater vehicles are available?

Building and controlling useful UUVs requires technology and communications that a navy may lack, while underwater links and microchip supply remain constraints.

A navy must be able to build and control uncrewed underwater vehicles before they can replace crewed boats. Underwater communication makes that difficult, even when supporting communications networks are available. Practical systems often rely on tightly bounded autonomous tasks, operation near the surface, or a long fiber-optic cable, with mine-warfare vehicles given as an example. The discussion also raises dependence on microchip supplies from Taiwan. Disruption to that supply would complicate the use of electronics in expendable vehicles.