The U.S. Navy will begin using Xbox 360 video game controllers to operate periscopes on some of its newer, most advanced submarines.

The USS Colorado, a nuclear-powered submarine scheduled to be commissioned in November, will be the first to integrate an Xbox 360 controller into periscopic imaging systems.

Traditionally, operators control the imaging system with an expensive, helicopter-style joystick. This move not only saves on expense, but also brings aboard a technology that younger sailors are accustomed to and will require less training.

Such an application of off-the-shelf technology emerged from the Navy's research lab, launched four years ago with Lockheed Martin in Manassas, Va., and dubbed "Area 51."

Researchers asked junior officers and younger sailors “What can we do to make your life better?" Lt. j.g. Kyle Leonard told The Virginian-Pilot, the Norfolk, Va., newspaper first reporting the development. "One of the things that came out is the controls for the scope. It’s kind of clunky in your hand; it’s real heavy.”

Unlike periscopes seen in movies, this modern one is not a traditional rotating device, but one made up of high-resolution cameras and viewed on large HD monitors.

The Xbox controller will be installed on other Virginia-class submarines as part of the Navy's normal modernization process, Navy spokesperson Brienne Lang told The Virginian-Pilot.



The Associated Press contributed to this report.



Follow USA TODAY reporter Mike Snider on Twitter: @MikeSnider.