According to a publication on its official networks, the SIMA Peru shipyard shared images of the work carried out on the Type 209/1200 B.A.P. Antofagasta (SS-32) submarine of the Peruvian Navy. The photographs show the transfer of the unit in sections to one of the shipyard’s vessels, showing the rear section of the submarine, where the electric propulsion motor is located without its propeller and upper stabiliser.
It is worth noting that the unit entered SIMA facilities in early 2020 to undergo maintenance and modernization work. According to the established program, the Peruvian shipyard will intervene with the four Type 209/1200 class units that make up the Peruvian Navy’s Submarine Force, with the aim of extending their service life by 15 years.
The project is being carried out with the cooperation, advice, and technical supervision of the German firm ThyssenKrupp Marine Systems, with the work being conducted jointly with shipyard personnel. The diesel-electric Type 209/1200 submarines were incorporated by the Peruvian Navy in the early 1980s. Due to the obsolescence of their components, the submarines are undergoing a comprehensive update of their systems and components.
The modernization includes a new firing system and combat system called “Kallpa,” developed by Peru and built by SIMA, the installation of new MTU 12V493 AZ80 GA31L engines, the renewal of its 480 battery elements, and the adaptation of new periscopes and the capability to launch SM-39 Exocet anti-ship missiles.
It is worth noting that at the end of January of the current year, SIMA conducted the first stability tests of the submarine B.A.P. “Chipana” (SS-34), the first unit to receive the modernization works.
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