South Africa's first of three new submarines will be officially launched on November 3, the SA Navy said yesterday.

The new Class 209 Type 1400 submarine will be handed over to the navy in Kiel, Germany, by HDW shipbuilders.

In a statement, the navy quoted the submarine's commanding officer, Commander Gary Kretschmer as saying "my first impression of the submarine is that it is an awesome machine.

"The boat has surpassed all my expectations; she is stable, quiet and responds efficiently to the fully automated systems.

"The working areas such as the Combat Information Centre (CIC) and Technical Control Centre (TCC) offer a spacious and comfortable working environment. The living areas are slightly tight but are well-equipped with good finishes and offer a greater degree of personal space than in the old Daphne class boats."

With all acceptance trials successfully completed, the boat is being made ready for the long trip to South Africa under escort early next year.

Kretschmer said the training of the crew had gone well, with the first crew complement all trained and competent, while a further 20 submariners were undergoing training in Erkenförde near Kiel and another group of 20 in India.

The officers commanding of the three new submarines have all completed their training in Germany.

With acknowledgement to the Cape Times.