Rescue buoy (submarine)

A rescue buoy (submarine) is a specialized piece of equipment designed to aid in the location and potential rescue of a disabled submarine. It is typically a bright-colored, buoyant marker released from inside the submarine to float to the surface.

The primary function of a rescue buoy is to provide a readily visible and locatable point on the surface, indicating the position of the submerged submarine. This is crucial because the submarine itself may be unable to communicate its location due to damage or power failure. The buoy acts as a beacon, significantly reducing the search area for rescue forces.

Key features and functionalities typically include:

• Buoyancy: Designed to rapidly ascend to the surface upon release.
• Highly Visible Marking: Usually painted in bright, highly contrasting colors (e.g., international orange or yellow) and often equipped with reflective materials to enhance visibility, even in low-light conditions.
• Communication Capabilities: Modern rescue buoys often include communication devices such as:
  • Radio Transmitters: To broadcast distress signals and GPS coordinates to search and rescue teams.
  • Sonar Transponders: To emit underwater acoustic signals that can be detected by surface vessels or other submarines equipped with sonar.
• Release Mechanism: Triggered manually from within the submarine, or automatically in certain emergency situations (e.g., excessive depth or loss of power).
• Durable Construction: Built to withstand the pressures and corrosive environment of the deep sea.

The information transmitted or indicated by the rescue buoy allows rescue teams to rapidly deploy equipment such as:

• Remotely Operated Vehicles (ROVs): To assess the condition of the submarine.
• Submersible Rescue Vehicles (SRVs): To physically attach to the submarine and evacuate personnel.
• Decompression Chambers: For the safe return of the rescued crew.

The design and specifications of rescue buoys vary depending on the size and type of submarine they are intended for, as well as the capabilities of the rescue forces of the operating nation. They are an essential component of submarine safety and emergency response protocols.