U.S. Submarine On Queensland Reef

Press, Volume CVI, Issue 31209, 5 November 1966, Page 15

U.S. Submarine On Queensland Reef

• (N.Z. Press Association—Copyright) CANBERRA, November 4. The American submarine U.S.S. Tiru has run aground on a reef off the north coast of Australia, it was announced in Canberra today.

First reports said there were no casualties aboard the ship, which is in no immediate danger. The Tiru grounded while proceeding from Brisbane to an unnamed fleet operating area. United States authorities

in Canberra said the submarine grounded on Frederick reef off the Queensland coast east of Mackay, 700 miles north of Brisbane. A United States spokesman said units of the R.A.N. under the direction of Rear-Admiral E. A. T. Smith were going to the submarine’s assistance. The submarine struck trouble last night. It has only minor damage. Out Of Water An R.A.A.F. Neptune reconnaissance plane is flying to the area.

The submarine is reported to be well out of the water. Tiru is a Balao class submarine built in 1947. This class of submarine carries a crew of 80—eight officers and 72 men. It is a conventional submar-

ine of 1500 tons with a range of 12,000 miles. Several years ago the Tiru had a conversion at Pearl Harbour. Her hull was lengthened and the size of the conning tower increased. The conversion gave the Tiru increased fuel capacity

land extra berthing accommodation. She was also fitted with advanced electronic systems giving her greater communication capabilities. The conversion gave Tiru the ability to fire new advanced weapons.