Submarine Docking and Entry: Vessels and Technologies

Once a submarine is underwater, it can pose a unique challenge for traditional docking and entry procedures. Unlike surface ships, submarines operate at significant depths, often beyond the reach of surface vehicles. However, numerous advanced technologies and specialized facilities facilitate submarine operations. This article explores these methods, highlighting key historical events and contemporary systems used in submarine docking and entry.

Diving and Surface Operations

Submarines can surface for personnel and supply transfers, utilizing specialized equipment such as diving bells or submersibles. These tools enable the safe exchange of personnel and supplies while submerged, ensuring effective submarine operations.

Manned Submersibles and Remotely Operated Vehicles (ROVs)

Some submarines are equipped with or can launch manned submersibles and ROVs. These can perform tasks or gather data at considerable depths. For example, DSRVs (Deep-Submergence Rescue Vehicles) dock with a submarine's escape hatches, allowing rescue and recovery operations.

Dry Docks and Penetrations

Military submarines often dock in dry docks or specialized penetration structures. These provide access for maintenance and crew transfer under controlled conditions. Dry docks are designed to accommodate the unique needs of submarines, ensuring safe and efficient docking procedures.

Specialized Facilities

Military submarines have access to specialized facilities, such as those at the U.S. Naval Base, which are not accessible to standard vehicles. These facilities ensure the safety and maintenance of submarines, providing a range of services, from personnel transfer to equipment storage.

Historical Context: USS Squalus Rescue

The first successful submarine rescue took place in 1939. During sea trials, the USS Squalus suffered an equipment failure, leading to the flooding of the aft torpedo room and the death of 26 sailors. The remaining 33 crew members were rescued using the Mccann Rescue Chamber.

The Mccann Rescue Chamber was a large steel bell designed to be lowered from a surface vessel. Once attached, it allowed for reduced air pressure to safely open the submarine's escape hatch. Using this method, all 33 surviving crew members were rescued in four trips. The Mccann Rescue Chamber System remains in service in several contemporary navies, including the U.S. Navy and the Turkish Navy.

Contemporary Advanced Systems: DSRVs and SEAL Delivery Vehicles (SDVs)

Deep-Submergence Recovery Vessels (DSRVs) were developed in the 1970s and remain in use today. These vessels can be air-transportable and have limited covert capabilities. They are capable of operating from a specially-designed ship, effectively shuttling back and forth between the submarines and the surface.

Another advanced technology is the Submarine Rescue Diving Recompression System (SRDRS). This remotely operated system can perform rescue operations without the need for a mother submarine, providing a flexible and efficient solution.

The SEAL Delivery Vehicle (SDV) was developed in the 1970s and operational since 2003. These systems allow divers to deploy onto submarines while submerged, enhancing the capabilities of naval operations and enabling covert missions.

These advanced systems and specialized facilities demonstrate the evolving nature of submarine operations and rescue missions, bridging the gap between traditional and modern technologies.

Therefore, while traditional vehicles cannot dock or enter a submarine underwater, there are numerous methods and technologies that greatly enhance submarine operations and ensure the safety and rescue of personnel.