Military

Submariners Glimpse into Each Other's World

Navy NewsStand

Story Number: NNS091023-18
Release Date: 10/23/2009 2:05:00 PM

From Commander, Submarine Group 10 Public Affairs

KINGS BAY, Ga. (NNS) -- Crew members from USS Wyoming (SSBN 742)(Gold) and Italian submarine (ITS) Scire (S 527) toured each other's boats Oct. 19-20.

The submarines are striking in their contrast. Scire is 55.9 meters in length compared to Wyoming's 560 feet (170.69 meters). Scire has a crew of 28 Sailors, while Wyoming is manned by 150 Sailors, but there are some
similarities.

Each submarine can spend almost three months submerged and both are cutting edge technology. Wyoming is one of the most advanced ballistic missile submarines in the world, powered by a pressurized water reactor and virtually undetectable at operating speed and depth. Scire is leading the way in a new type of propulsion system; it's powered by a hybrid diesel-electric generator and air-independent fuel cell propulsion system. With this new technology, Scire is a conventional boat that is as silent as a nuclear powered sub.

By experiencing the different submarines is an important part of the Navy's working relationship with international partners. They help to enhance friendly, mutual cooperation and understanding between participating navies by developing interoperability in naval operations.

"We greatly appreciate the chance to visit the Wyoming and the submarine brotherhood that you have shown us," said Lt. Cmdr. Alberto Tarabotto, commanding officer, Scire, to the crew of Wyoming.

This is only the second time an Italian submarine has visited the United States since World War II. Last year, ITS Salvatore Todaro (S 526), Italy's first air independent propulsion submarine, visited the United States to strengthen the U.S. Navy and Italian Navy ties.

"We really appreciated them setting the time aside to show us how it's done in their country," said Sonar Technician 2nd Class (SS) Damion Dial. "It is astonishing how technologically advanced they are, how small the boat is and how few Sailors they need to run it."

For more news from Commander, Submarine Group 10, visit www.navy.mil/local/csg10/.