The HMAS Onslow, the Australian National Maritime Museum's submarine, was towed to Garden Island dockyard on Friday for its first major overhaul in four years.
"Every four to six years we take it across to Garden Island for a full refit," Maritime Museum spokesperson Shirani Aththas told AAP.
"Because it's in the water there's quite a build-up of marine growth and rust, and we give it a good coat of paint."
The two-week overhaul will also include repairs to the submarine's rear torpedo tubes.
The Onslow was one of six Oberon class submarines that formed the Australian Submarine Squadron in the late 1960s, as participated in covert missions in the Pacific and Indian oceans.
At just under 90 metres in length, with 68 submariners on board, Oberons were considered to be one of the most advanced types of conventional submarine, combining high speed with underwater endurance and attack capabilities against both other submarines and surface vessels.
"It's a great example of that underwater warfare of the era," Ms Aththas said.
"It's in the same condition it was when it was in service, and gives a great perspective to what life was like during the Cold War."
The museum says thousands of visitors climb aboard the HMAS Onslow each year, exploring its torpedo hatches, cramped sleeping quarters and narrow work spaces.
The submarine is expected to reopen to the public on Wednesday 6 June.
No comments:
Post a Comment