The **Substantial Findings** mission stands out as a key challenge in Call of Duty’s DMZ mode, part of the Black Mous faction’s Tier 3 assignments. Players must secure tracking devices from specific dead drops and attach them to submarines hidden in strategic map locations. Success grants valuable **Double XP Tokens** and 10,000 XP, boosting progression significantly.
Overview of Mission Requirements
This task splits across two maps: Al Mazrah and Ashika Island. It demands precision, combat readiness, and map knowledge to navigate enemy-heavy zones. Core steps include:
- Collect two unique tracking devices from designated dead drops.
- Plant one tracker on the submarine at Hafid Port in Al Mazrah.
- Plant the second on the submarine in Ashika Island’s underground waterways.
Trackers cannot be shared across maps or sessions; each must be picked up fresh for its respective area.
Gearing Up for Success
Before deploying, equip loadouts optimized for close-quarters combat and stealth. Recommended gear includes suppressors for quiet approaches, high-mobility perks to evade patrols, and ample ammo for armored foes. Vehicles speed up travel between points of interest (POIs), but dismount early to avoid detection.
| Essential Loadout Items | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Suppressed SMG or AR | Quiet enemy elimination |
| Stun Grenades | Crowd control against bots |
| Armor Plates (x3+) | Survive Juggernaut encounters |
| Vehicle (e.g., SUV) | Fast extraction post-plant |
Step 1: Securing Trackers from Dead Drops
Al Sharim Pass Dead Drop (Al Mazrah)
Head to the mountainous Al Sharim Pass in northeast Al Mazrah. The dead drop sits in a rocky crevice near the main road, marked by a glowing dumpster icon on your tac map once nearby. Interact to claim the first tracker. Expect AI guards; use high ground for overwatch.
- Approach from the south road for cover.
- Clear patrolling bots before dumping items.
- Tracker auto-equips to inventory upon collection.
Town Center Dead Drop (Ashika Island)
On Ashika Island, navigate to the central Town Center POI, close to Science Center structures. The dead drop hides beside clustered buildings, often near a rope ladder leading underground. Grab the second tracker here, watching for teammates who might snag it first.
- Enter via rooftops to snipe threats.
- Coordinate with squad if playing co-op.
- Store unnecessary loot to make space.
Step 2: Planting at Hafid Port Submarine
Hafid Port, Al Mazrah’s western coastal hub, houses the first submarine inside a massive warehouse by the docks. Park outside, breach through side doors, and spot the sub docked indoors amid crates and foes.
Scale shipping containers or pipes to reach the top. Target the **sail fin** (vertical dorsal structure) – hold the interact key to plant. The prompt appears only on this exact spot.

Submarine sail in Hafid Port warehouse – plant site marked.
- Avoid main entrance; too exposed.
- Eliminate armored bots inside first.
- Plant takes 3-5 seconds; cover your back.
Step 3: Ashika Island Waterways Challenge
The second sub lurks in Ashika’s subterranean waterways beneath Tsuki Castle. From Town Center, find hut entrances with rope ladders descending to tunnels. Push central through flooded paths toward the dead drop area.
A **Juggernaut** spawns reliably mid-waterways – heavy armor, minigun wielder. Flank with explosives or coordinated fire. The sub floats beside the waterways dead drop; hop aboard and plant on the sail.

Juggernaut-patrolled waterways sub – precise jump required.
- Use gas grenades on Juggernaut weak points.
- Multiple entry tunnels; rotate if pinned.
- Two Juggernauts possible in high-threat lobbies.
Advanced Tactics and Troubleshooting
Common pitfalls include tracker loss on death (re-extract required) or misplanted devices (only sail works). Solo players: prioritize exfils post-plant. Squads: assign roles – one distracts, others plant.
| Issue | Solution |
|---|---|
| No plant prompt | Align precisely on sail fin |
| Juggernaut overwhelms | Explosives + distance shots |
| Tracker missing | Revisit correct dead drop |
| Sub not spawning | Check map version/season |
Rewards and Progression Impact
Completing both plants unlocks **Double XP Token** (usable in multiplayer/warzone) and 10,000 XP toward faction reputation. This advances Black Mous Tier 3, opening legendaries and higher missions.
FAQ
Can I use one tracker for both subs?
No, each map requires its dedicated device from local dead drops.
What’s the Juggernaut’s weakness in waterways?
Headshots post-explosive stagger; legs for mobility denial.
Is this solo-friendly?
Yes, with strong loadout and patience; squads speed it up.
Does season affect locations?
Core spots stable since Season 4, minor tweaks possible.
What if I die after planting one?
Progress saves partially; redo the failed half.
References
- How to plant tracker on top of the submarine in the ashika island waterways DMZ — YouTube (qQoDEXVyxgM). 2023.
- Substantial Findings DMZ Mission Guide: Al Sharim Pass Dead Drop and Submarine Locations — Pro Game Guides. 2023. https://progameguides.com/call-of-duty/substantial-findings-dmz-mission-guide-al-sharim-pass-dead-drop-and-submarine-locations/
- How to plant a tracker on top of the submarine Ashika Island — YouTube (2QzOV–JQbU). 2023. –JQbU
- Plant Trackers On Top of Submarines – DMZ Season 4 — YouTube (NkVmWnuRFLI). 2023.
- How to plant tracker on top of the submarine in Hafid Port DMZ — YouTube (JU6ssgQnes4). 2023.
- Substantial Findings Black Mous Tier 3 — WZHub.gg. 2023. https://wzhub.gg/missions/substantial-findings

