Navy declares SAS Manthatisi safe for sea after upgrades following deadly 2023 tragedy

SAS Manthatisi has returned to sea after completing safety inspections, operational testing and crew certification following the 2023 Kommetjie tragedy.

The South African Navy has confirmed that submarine SAS Manthatisi (S101) has returned to sea and was cleared for deployment after completing an extensive operational work-up, safety inspections and crew certification, nearly three years after the Kommetjie tragedy that claimed the lives of three naval personnel.

In a response to the Cape Argus , the Navy confirmed that SAS Manthatisi formed part of the sea-going forces deployed during the sea phase of Exercise Red Lion 2026, which ran from July 27 to August 28 and involved fleet vessels and naval establishments across the country.

The confirmation provides clarity following recent sightings of the Heroine-class submarine operating from Simon’s Town and in False Bay after a lengthy absence from sea.

The Navy said the vessel and its crew had undergone a series of mandatory tests, inspections and evaluations before being authorised to proceed to sea.

These included a full operational work-up cycle involving harbour and sea-based safety and readiness checks, as well as inspections by engineering, occupational health and safety, damage control and other safety specialists.

The submarine and its crew were also assessed and sanctioned by the Navy’s Operational Sea Training section, which is led by a former submarine captain.

According to the Navy, the section is responsible for certifying that both the submarine and its crew are competent, safe and authorised to carry out specific operations at sea.

Procedural compliance, equipment readiness and the crew’s proficiency in emergency drills, casualty response and seamanship were also assessed before the submarine was cleared.

“This rigorous process ensures that the submarine meets all safety, operational, and doctrinal requirements before being cleared for sea deployment,” the Navy said.

The return follows the September 2023 tragedy involving SAS Manthatisi off Kommetjie.

Seven crew members were swept overboard during a vertical replenishment exercise involving the submarine and a South African Air Force Maritime Lynx helicopter amid rough sea conditions.

Lieutenant Commander Gillian Hector, Master Warrant Officer William Mathipa and Warrant Officer Mmokwapa Lucas Mojela died during the incident, while other personnel were rescued.

Nearly three years later, the Navy has now specifically pointed to equipment upgrades and changes to its operating procedures since the tragedy as part of its assurance that SAS Manthatisi is safe to return to sea.