The most modern submarine of the Spanish Navy, the S-81 Isaac Peral, has been designed and built entirely in Spain. With a length of 80 meters and a weight of almost 3,000 tons, this submarine has a crew of 43 sailors in normal navigation. Despite its size, it only has two toilets and three showers for all personnel on board.
In the past, the Spanish Navy has experienced ups and downs regarding the number of submarines in service. Currently, besides the S-81 Isaac Peral, only the Galerna is operational, which is over forty years old. The presence of women in the crew of the S-81 is 13%, a percentage above the average in the Armed Forces.
The process for the S-81 to be ready for operation has been exhaustive, with seven launch tests conducted and the first live firing exercise planned for next month. This submarine has the capacity to reach a maximum speed of 19 knots and can operate at depths below 300 meters.
The S-81 will remain active until the summer of 2027, when the second submarine of the S-80 class, the S-82 Narciso Monturiol, will become operational. With reduced-size bunk beds and shared cabins, the crew of the S-81 is preparing for weeks of underwater transit, with simulations of emergency situations and closets that require restraint. The commander is the only one with a private cabin, although it is small in size.
Antonio Simón, second-in-command of the S-81, emphasizes that decisions in crisis situations are made by people, not machines, highlighting the importance of the crew's expertise. The submarine is equipped with six torpedo tubes and has undergone rigorous testing to ensure its full functioning.
With a history of 110 years in the Spanish submarine arsenal, the S-81 Isaac Peral joins the fleet as a significant advancement in national defense capability. Its advanced technology and meticulous preparation make it a key asset for future Navy missions.