Type 205-class

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Summary

Origin country 🇩🇪 Germany
Category Submarine
SubtypeAttack submarine
ManufacturerHowaldtswerke, Kiel, Copenhagen Naval Dockyard
Year commissioned1962
UnitsS191 U-12

Description

The Submarine Classe 205, also known as the German Type 205 class, is a diesel-electric submarine that was used by the German Navy from the late 1960s to the early 2000s. This class of submarines was designed and built by Howaldtswerke-Deutsche Werft (HDW) in Germany.

The Submarine Classe 205 had a length of approximately 43 meters and a surfaced displacement of around 436 tons. It was powered by a combination of diesel engines and electric motors, which enabled it to operate underwater for extended periods of time. The submarine could reach a maximum speed of 15 knots when surfaced and 17 knots when submerged.

Equipped with advanced equipment and technology for its time, the Submarine Classe 205 was fitted with sonar systems, torpedoes, and mines. It also had the capability to launch Sub-Harpoon anti-ship missiles. The submarines were manned by a crew of 22 personnel, including officers and enlisted sailors.

The Submarine Classe 205 was known for its versatility and reliability. It was primarily used by the German Navy for coastal defense and anti-submarine warfare operations. However, these submarines were also capable of participating in intelligence gathering, surveillance, and reconnaissance missions.

Over its service life, the Submarine Classe 205 underwent several modernization programs to enhance its capabilities. These upgrades included improvements in sonar systems, sensor integration, and combat systems. The submarines were gradually phased out of service in the early 2000s and replaced by more advanced submarine classes.

The Submarine Classe 205 played a significant role in the German Navy's maritime security and defense strategy. It provided an important deterrence capability and contributed to the overall operational effectiveness of the naval forces.

Technical specifications

Type 205
Displacement419 tons
Displacement submerged450 tons
Range 7000 km
Crew22 members
Width4.59 m (15.1 ft)
Length44.3 m (145.3 ft)
Max. depth250 m (820.2 ft)
Propulsion

1 MTU 12 V 396 diesel with a power of 1,490 hp - 1 propeller

Armament

8 533mm TLT (12 torpedoes/missiles)

Maximum speed10 knots
Max. speed submerged17 knots

Photo of Type 205 class

Type 205-class

Silhouette

Type 205-class silhouette