OVERVIEW: The S 160 *Tridente* [Type 209PN] is a diesel-electric submarine operated by the Portuguese Navy. The vessel represents a significant upgrade over earlier Type 209 variants, incorporating enhanced sensor suites and improved operational capabilities.

DETAILS: The *Tridente* and its sister ship *Arpão* represent the pinnacle of the Type 209 family, designated as the Type 209PN variant. The acquisition of these submarines marked a crucial step in modernizing the Portuguese Navy’s submarine force, replacing older *Albacora*-class vessels. The Type 209PN design incorporates several improvements derived from the Type 214 submarine, though retaining the diesel-electric propulsion system for cost-effectiveness and suitability to Portugal's operational requirements. These improvements include enhanced hull design for reduced noise signature, advanced automation systems to reduce crew requirements, and an upgraded combat management system. The design emphasizes littoral operations, reflecting Portugal's strategic focus on its coastal waters and the broader Atlantic region.

The primary roles of the *Tridente* are anti-submarine warfare (ASW), anti-surface warfare (ASuW), intelligence gathering, and maritime surveillance. The submarine's endurance allows for extended patrols, monitoring critical sea lanes and projecting power in support of national interests. The installation of the DBQS-40 hull-mounted and flank array sonar suite, including the IPS CSU 90 Integrated Processing System, provides advanced detection and tracking capabilities against both surface and subsurface targets. The FL 1800U electronic support measures (ESM) system allows for passive detection and identification of radar emissions, enhancing situational awareness and facilitating intelligence gathering. The OMS 100 / SERO 400 periscope suite provides high-resolution visual and infrared imaging capabilities, critical for covert surveillance and target identification.

The *Tridente*'s operational effectiveness is further enhanced by its armament and fire control systems. The TAU-2000 DL torpedo decoy launching system provides a robust defense against incoming torpedoes, increasing survivability in contested environments. The vessel is equipped with eight 533mm torpedo tubes, capable of launching a variety of modern torpedoes and potentially anti-ship missiles (although specific missile types in Portuguese service are unconfirmed). The fire control system integrates sensor data to provide accurate targeting solutions, maximizing the effectiveness of the submarine's offensive capabilities. The KH 1007 [Type 1007] navigation radar provides reliable surface navigation and target acquisition in adverse weather conditions. The DTA-50 [TAS 90] towed array sonar, while not explicitly confirmed as actively deployed, likely provides extended detection ranges in ASW operations.

SPECIFICATION: Length: 67.7 m || Beam: 6.35 m || Draft: 6.6 m || Disp: 1700 t

SENSORS: FMS 52 || FL 1800U || DBQS-40 Hull [CSU 90] || KH 1007 [Type 1007] || DTA-50 [TAS 90] || DBQS-40 Flank [CSU 90] || DBQS-40 Intercept [IPS CSU 90] || OMS 100 / SERO 400 Periscope Suite

ARMAMENT: TAU-2000 DL || 533mm TT