OVERVIEW: The S 190 U 11 [Type 205] is a diesel-electric coastal submarine operated by the German Navy, commissioned in 1978.

DETAILS: The Type 205 submarine represents a significant step in post-war German submarine design. Developed from the earlier Type 201, the Type 205 incorporates austenitic steel, a non-magnetic material, in its hull construction to minimize its magnetic signature. This was a crucial requirement given the operating environment in the shallow and congested waters of the Baltic Sea, where magnetic anomaly detection was a primary anti-submarine warfare (ASW) method. The design emphasizes stealth and maneuverability in shallow water. The class features a single-hull design with a streamlined exterior to reduce hydrodynamic drag and acoustic signature. The development of the Type 205 was driven by the Cold War imperative to counter Soviet naval activity in the Baltic and to provide a credible deterrent in a confined and challenging operational theatre.

The primary role of the Type 205 submarine is anti-submarine warfare (ASW) in littoral environments. They are also capable of anti-surface warfare (ASuW) operations, primarily against smaller surface combatants and amphibious vessels. The Type 205 does not possess an anti-air warfare (AAW) capability. The submarine's operational profile revolves around covert surveillance and patrol, interdiction of enemy surface vessels, and reconnaissance. The boat's relatively small size and low noise signature contribute to its effectiveness in shallow water operations, allowing it to exploit the acoustic complexities of the environment for evasion and attack.

The sensor suite of the S 190 U 11 is optimized for detecting and tracking targets in the littoral environment. The M1H radar provides surface search and navigation capabilities. The THD 1030 Calypso II radar enhances close-range navigation and target designation. The DUUG 1A sonar serves as the primary active/passive sonar system for target detection and classification. The DR 2000U electronic support measures (ESM) system provides early warning of radar emissions from surface ships and aircraft, enhancing situational awareness. The AN 407 navigation radar provides precise positional data. The boat is equipped with two periscopes: one optical and one with a low-light television (LLTV) camera, allowing for visual observation and targeting in various visibility conditions. The two 533mm torpedo tubes allow for the employment of standard NATO heavyweight torpedoes against both submarine and surface targets.

SPECIFICATION: Length: 43.9 m || Beam: 4.6 m || Draft: 4.3 m || Disp: 455 t

SENSORS: M1H || THD 1030 Calypso II || DUUG 1A || DR 2000U || AN 407 || Generic Submarine Periscope, Optical || Generic Submarine Periscope, LLTV

ARMAMENT: 533mm TT || 533mm TT