The Operational Diving Division is part of the South African Navy's Maritime Reaction Squadron (MRS) that was formed as the Naval Rapid Deployment Force (NRDF) in 2006. [1] [2]
The Division consists of the training wing and the operational wing of four operational diving teams of 17 divers. [3] These teams of combat divers are trained in mine-countermeasures, search and recovery and underwater explosives as a war time role. During peace time they are tasked also with assisting dry docking, underwater welding/cutting/repairs, and their continual role in assisting arms of service from other nations ( Lesotho, Tanzania) and in crime fighting in collaboration with the police.
Training is conducted at the Diving school at SAS Simonsberg, which was established on 1 April 1957 after the signing of the Simonstown Agreement. [4] [5]
Leadership | |
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Frigates | |
Submarines | |
Patrol Vessels | |
Support vessels | |
Mine hunters | |
Bases and units | |
History | |
Operations and exercises | |