How Does a Submarine Handle Rocking Motion When Surfaced

When a submarine is surfaced, it doesn't stop the rocking motion entirely. This phenomenon is quite common and is true for any vessel on the water's surface. However, there are strategies that can be employed to minimize the rocking and ensure the crew's comfort.

Understanding the Rocking Motion

According to my father, who was a WW2 US Navy submariner, the rocking motion remains a challenge even when the submarine is on the surface. In rough seas, the rocking can become so extreme that many crew members, unable to see the horizon, become seasick. Severe seasickness can impair their ability to perform essential tasks, leading to a transfer to non-sea-based roles within the Navy if necessary.

Minimizing Rocking Motion

To minimize rocking, the submarine can navigate perpendicular to incoming waves. This approach can significantly reduce the amplitude of the rocking. Another effective strategy is to dive into deeper water, as the rocking usually diminishes with greater depth. However, the submarine must either reach its dive point and submerge, or enter port if there are no other options.

Educational Strategies and Training

The rocking motion of a submarine (or any boat) on the surface presents a significant challenge, especially in rough seas. Naval training programs, such as earning your dolphins, include rigorous training to handle the harsh conditions. The goal is to prepare sailors for such environments, ensuring they can remain functional even under extreme rocking conditions. The tension of maintaining the engines running on the surface is a common theme, as illustrated by my father's experience.

Peer Sharing and Warnings

Submariners often share experiences and warnings with each other. A popular 'inside joke' is the phrase 'Oh sh!@ broached again,' substituted for 'At periscope depth' in the North Atlantic during the winter months. This phrase highlights the common occurrence of 'broaching' (rolling to such an extent that the blades of the propellers hit the water surface) in rough seas. The winter months in the North Atlantic are particularly challenging, with many Officers of the Deck (OOD) and Diving Officers earning their wings in these conditions.

Conclusion

In conclusion, while a submarine cannot completely eliminate the rocking motion when surfaced, strategies such as navigating perpendicular to waves and submerging can help reduce it. The experience of a submariner on deck during rough seas is a testament to the challenges faced and the training required to handle these conditions. Safe navigation and efficient operations rely on a combination of skill, experience, and strategic planning.