South Africa established a submarine service in 1970. The original gold submarine badge was issued in 1970 for all ranks. The original badge was a simple submarine outline in three manufacture variations, thin stamped, thick stamped and thick cast (no difference from the front). In 1974, the badge was modified to include a wreath around the sub. In 1988, an unofficial miniature was produced, all grey. There are also cloth insignia with a gold emblem on a light shirt material and on denim.   

South Africa's first submarine, SAS Maria Van Riebeeck was launched at Nantes, France by Mrs Elize Botha, wife of then Hon. Minister of Defence, Mr P.W. Botha, on the 18 March 1969.

SAS Maria Van Riebeeck arrived in Simon's Town on the 13th May 1971 under the command of Cdr J.A.C. Weideman.

SAS Emily Hobhouse ( Lt Cdr Woodburne) arrived 7 months later on the 10th December 1971, followed by SAS Johanna Van Der Merve ( Lt Cdr T.J. Honiball) on the 19th June 1972.

The three submarines supported by the base, SAS Hogu Biermann, form the submarine flotilla, which fulfills a vital role in the defence of the Republic of South Africa.

  Displacement: 1,043 tons submerged

Dimensions: 57.75 x 6.75 x 4.5 meters (189.5 x 22 x 14.5 feet)

Propulsion: Diesel-electric, 2 diesels, 2 shafts, 2,600 shp, 15.5 knots

Crew: 47

Sonar: DUUA-2 active, DUXX-2 passvie

Armament: 12 21 inch torpedo tubes (8 forward, 4 aft), 12 torpedoes

Depth: 300 meters

Modernized in the 1980's, to be in service through 2005.One additional unit is in reserve.

          

Maria Van Riebeek

Emily Hobhouse

Johanna Van Der Marve