On September 4, 2024, the navies of India and South Africa solidified a critical maritime agreement to bolster submarine rescue capabilities, underscoring their commitment to regional safety and cooperation. This new pact enhances the ability to respond to submarine emergencies, ensuring the safety of South African submarine crews and reinforcing maritime security in the Indian Ocean Region.
Key Features of the Agreement
Central to the agreement is the Indian Navy’s provision of its Deep Submergence Rescue Vehicle (DSRV) to assist in submarine accidents. The DSRV is an advanced piece of equipment specifically designed for deep-sea rescues, capable of reaching submarines trapped at great depths. This partnership ensures that both navies are better equipped to respond swiftly and effectively in times of need. The agreement not only enhances operational readiness but also strengthens India and South Africa’s cooperative ties in maritime safety.
The Need for Enhanced Submarine Safety
The importance of this agreement is heightened by the tragic accident in September 2023, when three South African Navy members lost their lives aboard the SAS Manthatisi, a submarine in the South African fleet. This incident exposed vulnerabilities in submarine rescue capabilities and highlighted the urgent need for safety improvements. As one of the few African nations with a functioning submarine fleet, South Africa’s alignment with India provides essential support to prevent future tragedies, ensuring that their crews have access to world-class rescue operations.
Indian Navy’s DSRV Capabilities
India’s submarine rescue program is among the most advanced in the region. The Indian Navy operates two state-of-the-art DSRVs, acquired from the UK, which became operational in 2018 and 2019. These specialized vehicles can dive as deep as 650 meters and are capable of rescuing up to 14 people in a single mission. Each DSRV is accompanied by a remotely operated vehicle (ROV), which aids in conducting underwater missions such as locating damaged submarines or conducting rescue operations.
In 2018, one of India’s DSRVs set a national record by diving to a depth of 666 meters, demonstrating the country’s capability to handle deep-sea rescue operations. The DSRVs are also highly mobile, designed to be easily transported by road, air, or sea, ensuring that they can reach emergency locations quickly.
Expanding Regional Collaboration
The new agreement with South Africa is part of a broader strategy by India to extend its submarine rescue expertise throughout the region. India already holds a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Singapore, focused on sharing submarine rescue techniques and operational knowledge. India’s commitment to fostering maritime security in the Indian Ocean Region (IOR) includes offering its advanced rescue capabilities to countries that may not possess such resources, thus strengthening collective maritime safety.
Previous Deployments of India’s DSRVs
India has already demonstrated its readiness to assist other nations in submarine emergencies. In April 2021, the Indian Navy deployed one of its DSRVs to assist in locating the missing Indonesian submarine KRI Nanggala, which had disappeared during a military exercise. Although the mission was eventually called off after debris from the submarine was discovered, India’s swift response showcased its dedication to supporting neighboring countries in times of crisis.
Strengthening Ties and Ensuring Safety
The submarine rescue agreement between India and South Africa is a pivotal step toward deepening their naval partnership and ensuring the safety of their maritime forces. By enhancing their collaborative capabilities in submarine rescues, both nations are working together to safeguard human lives, protect strategic naval assets, and promote greater security in the Indian Ocean Region. As the partnership evolves, it reinforces both countries’ commitment to fostering international cooperation and regional stability in maritime operations.