What does ASR mean in UNCLASSIFIED

An ASR (Auxiliary Submarine Rescue) is a specialized naval vessel equipped with the capability to rescue submariners from stricken submarines. These vessels are designed to provide life support, medical care, and means of extraction for submarine crews in distress.

ASRs typically have the following features:

1. Lockout chamber: A pressurized chamber that allows divers to exit and enter the ASR while maintaining the vessel's internal atmosphere.
2. Transfer chamber: A compartment that connects the lockout chamber to the submarine, enabling submariners to transfer from the submarine to the ASR.
3. Hyperbaric facilities: Specialized chambers and equipment for treating decompression sickness and other diving-related injuries.
4. Medical facilities: Operating rooms, intensive care units, and other medical facilities to provide emergency care.
5. Communication and navigation systems: Advanced technology for locating distressed submarines, maintaining contact, and navigating in complex environments.

When an ASR responds to a submarine distress call, it proceeds to the scene and locates the stricken vessel using sonar and other detection systems. Once the submarine is located, the ASR establishes communication with the crew and assesses the situation.

• Divers from the ASR then enter the lockout chamber and dive down to the submarine.
• They attach a transfer capsule to the submarine's escape hatch, and the submariners evacuate into the capsule.
• The capsule is then brought back to the ASR's transfer chamber, and the submariners are transferred into the ASR.
• The ASR provides medical care, life support, and transportation to a safe location for further treatment.

ASRs have certain limitations, including:

1. Depth range: ASR diving capabilities are limited by the depth of the stricken submarine and the physiological limits of the divers.
2. Environmental conditions: Adverse weather conditions, strong currents, and underwater obstacles can make rescue operations challenging.
3. Time constraints: Submariners have limited time to survive in a stricken submarine, and rescue operations must be conducted promptly.
4. Operational risks: ASR operations involve inherent risks for divers and the rescue crew, including decompression sickness, drowning, and equipment failure.