One of the reasons cited for using XBox controllers was the availability. If one breaks, you can find them at any port. Very apropos in this context...

I have a vision that on a submarine there is a cable box, not unlike the one that most of us probably have, filled with random cables with connectors we haven't used in years. And somewhere in that tangled mess is a spare XBox controller. I can imagine some poor Seaman trying to untangle a the controller cord so that they can use a periscope. I'm sure the Navy is far more organized, but it's funny to think about.

I absolutely believe it-I use one professionally to maneuver an underwater ROV. They're intuitive, already familiar to a lot of people, and surprisingly reliable.

Wow. As long as they’re not using joy cons I guess!