Submarine Recovery: A Timeline of Salvaged Ships

Submarines, with their intriguing history and technological complexity, have captured the imagination of many. While many have not been as lucky as some others to make a successful return to service, there have been instances where these sunken vessels have been brought back to life. This article delves into the history of some salvaged submarines and the technological and human efforts that went into their recovery. We will also explore why 1939 was particularly challenging for new submarines.

Historical Cases of Submarine Recovery

CSS Hunley

CSS Hunley was an early American submarine that served during the American Civil War. She sank on August 29, 1863, and was salvaged and later unsustainable. The story behind the transfer of this submarine is a fascinating blend of history and maritime adventure. In October 1863, she sank once again, but after considerable effort, she was recovered. Her story encapsulates the resilience of the naval forces during the Civil War and their determination to continue the fight despite such tragic incidents.

U2540 - Wilhel Bauer

U2540 faced a similar fate to many others, but her journey from the depths of the ocean to active duty is particularly noteworthy.

This German submarine was scuttled on May 8, 1945, at the end of World War II. However, unlike many of her contemporaries, she was raised the following year in 1957. Post-recovery, she was taken into the West German Navy, where she was renamed Wilhel Bauer. This transformation highlights the innovative efforts of post-war reconstruction and the dedication of naval personnel to restore these valuable assets.

U2365 - Hai

U2365 was also scuttled at the end of World War II but was reactivated in 1956. Just like U2540, she was renamed during her reactivation as Hai, reflecting a new chapter in her naval career with the West German Navy.

Japanese Submarine No. 6

The story of Japanese Submarine No. 6 is one of tragedy and remarkable human effort. On a training cruise in Hiroshima Bay in 1910, the submarine sank. However, the crew’s courage and ingenuity are commendable, as their commanding officer wrote a detailed report about their efforts to salvage the submarine and an apology to the Emperor for the loss. The next day, she was successfully raised, marking a historic moment in submarine recovery efforts.

British Submarine A1

British Submarine A1 made an unusual exit from service. Sunk in collision with a mail steamer in March 1904, she was resurrected a mere month later, leading to a unique moment in maritime history where a submarine was recovered and re-entered active service.

A Pair of Notable Cases from 1939

While 1939 was a challenging year for newly commissioned submarines, both the American USS Squalus and the British HMS Thetis faced their own unique sets of circumstances. Both submarines required skilled personnel and innovative rescue techniques to be salvaged from the sea floor.

USS Squalus - A Rescue Chamber in Action

USS Squalus, a brand new submarine, was conducting a test dive in the waters off New Hampshire in 1939, when complications arose. As the submarine descended, the main induction valve failed to close, causing water to flood the engine rooms. 33 crew members were trapped, but the sister submarine USS Sculpin signaled the arrival of the USS Falcon, equipped with a new McCann Rescue Chamber. The chamber was successfully used to rescue the survivors, and the submarine was lifted to safety, emblematic of the innovative approach to submarine rescue.

HMS Thetis - A Tragic Yet Resilient Journey

HMS Thetis, a T-class submarine, also met with misfortune during her sea trials. While undergoing trials to test her diving systems, a oversight in the sealing of the forward torpedo tubes allowed water to flood the submarine, resulting in the inability to surface. Unfortunately, the overwhelming loss of life due to carbon dioxide poisoning and the inability to maintain balance necessitated the submarine's permanent resting place on the sea floor. However, her subsequent recovery and re-tasking under a new name, HMS Thunderbolt, served as a testament to the ongoing efforts in naval history and maritime innovation.

Both these cases showcase the immense challenges and the remarkable efforts made by naval forces to ensure the safety and recovery of these valuable assets. The historical significance of these events not only adds depth to our understanding of naval history but also highlights the ingenuity and resilience of the human spirit in the face of adversity.