Seven submariners were standing on the deck of the SAS Manthatisi off Kommetjie, near Cape Town, when “high waves” swept them into the sea. Three of them died.
The crew had been carrying out a “vertical transfer” of supplies with a South African Air Force Lynx helicopter on Wednesday afternoon, 20 September. The South African Department of Defence announced the deaths in a statement. “It is with deep sadness that the SANDF announces the tragic loss of three SA Navy submariners off Kommetjie on 20 September on board the SAS MANTHATISI,” it said.
The rescue
A distress call went to Cape Town Radio, which sent the National Sea Rescue Institute from Kommetjie. The transfer was cancelled at once. A surface swimmer was lowered from the helicopter to help, but the department said rough seas hampered the recovery.
All seven were pulled from the water. Three were pronounced dead, and one senior officer was in critical condition. The remaining crew, along with the swimmer, were being treated in hospital.
Among the dead was Lieutenant Commander Gillian Elizabeth Hector, described as South Africa’s first female submarine navigator at that rank.
Rough coast
The accident came after a “Spring Tide” hit South Africa’s southern and southeastern coast. The South African Weather Service recorded waves as high as 9.5 metres over the preceding weekend. Social media videos showed waves smashing seaside buildings and carrying away vehicles. The service said the conditions had caused “havoc” along the coastline. At least one death and dozens of injuries were attributed to the storm.
The Manthatisi is one of three German-built Type 209/1400 Heroine-class submarines in the navy. It was reported to be on its way to Cape Town for the SA Navy Festival, a three-day exhibition that was to put active navy vessels on display at the V&A Waterfront.
The Defence Department said an inquiry into the circumstances would be convened “in due course.” The defence minister, deputy minister, the chief of the SANDF, the chief of the navy and the flag officer fleet sent condolences to the families.
