OVERVIEW: The S 518 Nazario Sauro [Sauro I/II Class] is a diesel-electric attack submarine operated by the Italian Navy. Commissioned in 1981, the vessel represents a significant step in Italian submarine design and construction.

DETAILS:
The Nazario Sauro class was developed in the 1970s to replace the aging Enrico Toti-class submarines. The design emphasized improved acoustic performance, increased operational range, and enhanced combat capabilities compared to its predecessor. Fincantieri, a leading Italian shipbuilding company, was responsible for the design and construction of the class. The Sauro class submarines were conceived as versatile platforms capable of operating in the Mediterranean Sea and beyond. The design incorporates a teardrop hull form for optimal hydrodynamic efficiency and reduced underwater noise. Special attention was given to internal arrangements to maximize crew comfort and operational effectiveness during extended deployments. The Sauro I/II class benefited from incremental upgrades and improvements over the initial design, incorporating technological advancements in sensors, electronics, and weapon systems as they became available.

The primary roles of the Nazario Sauro-class submarines are anti-submarine warfare (ASW), anti-surface warfare (ASuW), and intelligence gathering. The submarine's ASW capabilities are bolstered by its advanced sonar suite, including the M5 [DUUG-6] sonar, providing long-range detection and tracking of enemy submarines. Its ASuW capabilities rely on its ability to discreetly approach and engage surface targets using torpedoes. The MM/BPS-704 [3RM-20 SMG] surface search radar provides the submarine with the capability to detect and track surface contacts, aiding in navigation and target acquisition. The boat is also capable of conducting clandestine operations, including surveillance and reconnaissance, due to its inherent stealth and advanced sensor package.

The S 518 Nazario Sauro is equipped with a comprehensive suite of sensors designed for situational awareness and target engagement. The MM/BLD-727 Thetis towed array sonar enhances the submarine's ability to detect and classify distant underwater targets, significantly improving its ASW effectiveness. The IPD-70 MF and IPD-70 LF sonars provide active and passive detection capabilities in medium and low frequencies, respectively. Two generic submarine periscopes, one optical and one equipped with a Low Light Television (LLTV) camera, enable visual observation of the surface environment, supplementing the information provided by electronic sensors. These systems allow for accurate target identification and engagement in both day and night conditions, and provide valuable data for intelligence gathering.

SPECIFICATION: Length: 63.9 m || Beam: 6.8 m || Draft: 5.7 m || Disp: 1456 t

SENSORS: M5 [DUUG-6] || MM/BPS-704 [3RM-20 SMG] || MM/BLD-727 Thetis || IPD-70 MF || IPD-70 LF || Generic Submarine Periscope, Optical || Generic Submarine Periscope, LLTV

ARMAMENT: 533mm TT