Type 212-class
Summary
Origin country | 🇩🇪 Germany |
Category | Submarine |
Subtype | Diesel attack submarine |
Manufacturer | Howaldtswerke-Deutsche Werft GmbH (HDW), Fincantieri SpA |
Year commissioned | 2005 |
Approx. unit cost | $300 million - $600 million |
Units | S181 U-31, S182 U-32, S183 U-33, S184 U-34 |
Current operators | 🇩🇪 Germany |
Description
The Submarine Classe 212 class is a technologically advanced and capable fleet of submarines designed for both coastal and open ocean operations. Manufactured by the renowned German shipbuilding company ThyssenKrupp Marine Systems, this class of submarines is widely regarded as one of the most sophisticated and versatile in the world.
The Submarine Classe 212 class features a state-of-the-art AIP (Air-Independent Propulsion) system, which allows for extended periods of submerged operations without the need for surfacing or snorkeling. This advanced propulsion system significantly enhances the submarines' stealth capabilities and greatly reduces their acoustic signature, making them extremely hard to detect by enemy surface vessels or other submarines.
With a length of approximately 56 meters and a displacement of around 1,500 tons, the Submarine Classe 212 class offers a streamlined and compact design for enhanced maneuverability and agility. Its cutting-edge technologies include advanced sonar systems, powerful torpedoes, and cruise missiles that enable precise targeting and effective engagement of both surface and underwater targets.
These submarines also boast impressive endurance, with the ability to travel up to 12,000 nautical miles at a cruising speed of 8 knots. The Submarine Classe 212 class can operate at depths of more than 200 meters and accommodates a crew of up to 27 sailors in comfortable and functional living quarters.
Known for their exceptional reliability and low maintenance costs, the Submarine Classe 212 class submarines have been adopted by several prominent naval forces around the world, including the Italian Navy and the German Navy. The versatility and advanced capabilities of these submarines make them suitable for a wide range of mission profiles, such as surveillance and reconnaissance, intelligence gathering, anti-submarine warfare, and special operations.
Technical specifications
Type 212 | |
---|---|
Displacement | 1500 tons |
Displacement submerged | 1830 tons |
Range | 14000 km |
Endurance | 12 weeks |
Crew | 27 members |
Width | 6.8 m (22.3 ft) |
Length | 56.0 m (183.7 ft) |
Max. depth | 250 m (820.2 ft) |
Propulsion | 1 MTU 16 V 396 diesel with a power of 3,875 hp - 1 propeller |
Armament | 6 533mm TLT (12 torpedoes/missiles) |
Maximum speed | 12 knots |
Max. speed submerged | 20 knots |