OVERVIEW: The S 71 Galerna [Agosta, S-70] is a diesel-electric attack submarine operated by the Spanish Navy, representing a vital component of its underwater warfare capabilities. Built in Spain under license from France, the Galerna is the lead ship of her class.

DETAILS: The Agosta class submarine design originated in France during the 1970s, intended as a capable and relatively affordable submarine for both the French Navy and export customers. Spain opted to procure the design and construct a series of submarines domestically, with the S 71 Galerna being the first of four units built at Cartagena. The design emphasized a blend of acoustic stealth, advanced sensors, and potent anti-surface and anti-submarine warfare capabilities. The selection of a French design reflected a need for a capable, modern submarine force following a period where Spain's submarine capabilities had lagged behind its regional peers. While not featuring air-independent propulsion (AIP), the Agosta class was designed for extended submerged endurance and quiet operation, making them well-suited for operations in the confined waters of the Mediterranean Sea and the Atlantic approaches to the Iberian Peninsula. The Galerna has undergone several modernization programs throughout its service life to maintain its operational effectiveness and integrate new technologies.

The primary role of the S 71 Galerna is anti-submarine warfare (ASW), focused on detecting, tracking, and engaging hostile submarines. The boat is also capable of anti-surface warfare (ASuW), posing a significant threat to enemy surface combatants and merchant shipping. The Galerna's mission profile includes maritime patrol, surveillance, and intelligence gathering. Her capabilities allow for the control of strategic waterways, support of naval task forces, and the covert insertion/extraction of special forces. The submarine's effectiveness is further enhanced by its ability to operate independently for extended periods, allowing for persistent presence in strategically important areas.

The S 71 Galerna's sensor suite provides a comprehensive picture of the underwater environment. The TRS 3100 Calypso III (DRUA 33C) radar allows for surface detection and navigation when surfaced or snorkeling. The DUUA 2B and DUUA 1A sonars provide passive listening capabilities, allowing the submarine to detect and classify distant targets. The TSM 2263 sonar system, including the DSUV 2H and DUUA 2D components, likely provides active sonar capability for precise targeting and obstacle avoidance. The TSM 2255 system is probably a fire-control system used to direct the torpedoes against surface and underwater threats. The Manta E system could be a towed array sonar system for increased range and reduced self-noise interference. The DUUG 5 and DUUG 6 (M5) hydrophones likely provide additional passive listening capabilities. The Generic Submarine Periscope (Optical) and Generic Submarine Periscope (LLTV) allow for visual observation in both day and low-light conditions. The 533mm torpedo tubes provide a potent offensive capability, capable of launching a variety of torpedoes against surface and subsurface targets. The Signal Ejector allows for the deployment of countermeasures and communication buoys.

SPECIFICATION: Length: 67.6 m || Beam: 6.8 m || Draft: 5.4 m || Disp: 1490 t

SENSORS: TRS 3100 Calypso III [DRUA 33C] || DUUA 2B || DUUA 1A || TSM 2263 [DSUV 2H + DUUA 2D] || TSM 2255 || Manta E || DUUG 5 || DUUG 6 [M5] || Generic Submarine Periscope, Optical || Generic Submarine Periscope, LLTV

ARMAMENT: 533mm TT || Signal Ejector