Queen Modjadji 1 arrives in Simon’s Town

May 27, 2008
Author: P&S

The South African Navy’s third new submarine, SAS Queen Modjadji 1 (S103) arrived in Simon’s Town last Thursday having sailed from the shipyard in Germany with a SAN crew which had also completed its training in Germany.

The submarine is the last of seven new ships to be delivered to the SAN, all from German builders. Four frigates and three submarines, which have added considerable menace and capability to the navy.

The three Type 209 submarines were acquired from the German Submarine Consortium, having received government approval in 1999 (not without considerable controversy, both then and now). The three boats were built in Kiel by the Howaldtswerke-Deutsche Werft AG (HDW), TNSW and Kockums with a first delivery date in 2005.

The following pictures were taken by photographer Clinton Wyness who flew to Simon’s Town from Durban specially to witness the arrival.



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Accompanied by a welcoming group of navy ships, Queen Modadji 1 makes a regal first appearance in False Bay, en route for the Simon’s Town Naval Base. Picture Clinton Wyness



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The calm waters of False Bay last Thursday morning must have been a welcome sight for the sailors on board the navy’s latest ship. Not only a calm welcoming sea but that’s home and loved one’s on the horizon. Picture by Clinton Wyness




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The Naval Base harbour tug keeps company with S103, with Simon’s Town only moments away. Picture Clinton Wyness




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Coming alongside at last after the long journey from Germany, much of which was spent submerged. All three subs are now home. Picture Clinton Wyness

All pictures by Clinton Wyness / cwyness@hotmail.com