THE first ever film footage of a giant squid in its natural habitat has been captured thanks to a North-East company.

Analox Military Systems (AMS) which is based in Stokesley, North Yorkshire, supplied Sub Aspidas to monitor the atmosphere inside the submersibles used in the project, ensuring safe conditions for the crew and scientists on board.

Researchers spent more than 285 hours until they were able to track down the mollusc, which has to date only been seen in still photographs, and follow it nearly a kilometre below the ocean surface south of Tokyo.

The team filmed a shiny silver and gold squid measuring about 30ft in length with eyes as big as dinner plates. It is believed that giant squid can grow up to 55ft long.

The submersibles with panoramic views to film the creature were organised by Mark Taylor, of Manned Sub International, who has worked with AMS for a number of years.

Two deep sea submersibles were used.

Mr Taylor said: “The giant squid has never before been filmed in the deep, and it has been thrilling to work on this project. Thanks to AMS and the Sub Aspida, we have been able to ensure everyone in the submersibles has been safe from potentially harmful gases at all times.”

Vicky Brown, sales and marketing director for AMS, said: “This was an ambitious and exciting project, which has proved amazingly successful.

“Mark’s expertise made sure the dives were conducted safely. He is a great supporter of AMS and our gas analysis products, and we’re delighted that the Sub Aspida has played a part in this ground breaking project.”

Footage of the giant squid is being broadcast by Discovery TV on its programme Monster Squid: The Giant is Real.