Submarine Rescue Operations: Procedures and Technologies
Is it possible for submarines to rescue other submarines in distress if they are in close proximity? Historically, such rescues have been successful under favorable conditions. This article explores the procedures and technologies involved in submarine rescue operations, both in times of conflict and peace, and highlights the importance of efficient rescue strategies.
Procedures for Submarine Rescue
Submarine rescue involves locating and assisting a distressed submarine to safely recover its crew. There are several methods used to achieve this, depending on the depth and condition of the distressed submarine.
Methods of Assistance
1. **Directed Assistance**: A nearby submarine can help another in trouble by keeping communications silent and ensuring that both submarines are not attacked by hostile forces. If the distressing submarine can surface, the rescue submarine can easily approach and assist. However, if the problem is deep, specialized procedures are required.
2. **Recovery to the Surface**: One common method is to recover the submarine to the surface, allowing the crew to exit through a hatch or a hole cut in the hull. This requires available equipment and good weather conditions, making it sometimes impractical.
3. **Rescue Bell or Diving Operations**: Using a sealed dry bell, the crew can exit the submarine and board the bell, which is then hoisted to the surface. This type of operation requires a good seal between the bell and the submarine to prevent water intrusion.
4. **Deep-Submergence Rescue Vehicle (DSRV)**: DSRVs are specialized submarines capable of rescuing personnel from deep underwater. They can lock onto a disabled submarine's hatch, equalize the pressure, and then transfer the crew to a decompression chamber.
The History of Submarine Escape and Rescue
The original strategy for surviving a submarine accident was escape, which has evolved over time. Early escape systems were primitive and based on rebreathers. The first successful escape from a sunk submarine was the German Drger apparatus in 1911. The Royal Navy adopted similar systems in 1929, and the US Navy used the Momsen lung until 1957.
In the 1940s, the Royal Navy found that escape without assistance had the same survival rate as using an apparatus. Thus, free ascent was officially adopted. The USN later adopted the Steinke hood, a hood with a transparent viewport, which allowed divers to ascend more comfortably.
Modern escape systems, such as the British Submarine Escape Immersion Equipment, provide environmental protection and integral flotation. However, many submariners have still perished due to hypothermia, heart failure, or drowning after an unaided ascent.
Advanced Rescue Technologies
Several nations have developed or are developing rescue technologies to handle the complexities of deep-sea rescue operations:
Total Immersion and Escape Systems
The Royal Navy's LR5 Submarine Rescue Vehicle operates in conjunction with the Submarine Parachute Assistance Group and the Scorpio ROV. The LR5 and DSRV were designed to be air transportable, allowing rapid deployment worldwide. DSRVs have a large capacity and can carry several survivors, reducing the need for multiple trips.
Other navies, like the Royal Australian Navy, have developed their own portable rescue capabilities. The Australian Submarine Rescue Vehicle Remora can operate at depths over 500 meters and can rescue up to 7 people at a time, while the USN's Submarine Rescue Diving Recompression System (SRDRS) is a remotely operated vehicle capable of rapid deployment and deep-sea rescue operations.
Conclusion
In summary, submarine rescue operations are complex and depend on various factors, including the depth of the distressed submarine, the availability of rescue equipment, weather conditions, and the overall environment. Advanced technologies and procedures have significantly improved the chances of successful rescue, but the challenges remain. The development and deployment of these technologies ensure that more lives can be saved during submarine accidents.