PRETORIA: The third and last of the SA Navy's new submarines was handed over in Kiel, Germany, yesterday.

The SAS Queen Modjadji was handed to the SA Navy crew after sea trials off the German coast, ThyssenKrupp Marine Systems said in statement.

The boat is expected to leave for South Africa on April 2, arriving in Simon's Town on May 22.

The submarine will be united with her two sister ships, the SAS Manthatisi and SAS Charlotte Maxeke.

The fleet of three submarines were bought as part of South Africa's multi-billion rand strategic arms acquisition programme.

The submarine was the last item that was acquired as part of the acquisition programme for the SA Navy.

The Navy also received four new patrol frigates as part of the package, as well as four Super Linx helicopters to be operated from the ships by the SA Air Force. - Sapa

With acknowledgement to Sapa and Cape Times