ARA Salta (S-31) is a Type 209 diesel-electric attack submarine in service with the Argentine Navy.[1] [2] The vessel was reported as incapable of navigation as of 2020.[3] However, Argentine navy divers were reported to be using her as a training platform at dockside.[4]
Salta is one of two Type 209 acquired by the Armada Argentina; the other is ARA San Luis (S-32), which actively participated in the Falklands/Malvinas conflict in 1982 and was retired from service in 1997.[5]
ARA Salta (S-31), has participated during the 1978 crisis, together with other Argentine surface ships and submarines. The Argentine Navy was deployed to the South Atlantic for a possible intervention against Chile. This war was avoided because a peaceful solution was achieved.
During the Falklands War (1982), the S-31 was not available because of several mechanic problems; mainly the torpedo firing system; a successful trial was performed on 15 June, when the conflict was over.
Since then, the S-31 has participated in several national and international exercises, and also spent many years patrolling the Argentine sea. As of 2022 the submarine is still in service, as a training platform for tactic divers (Buzos Tacticos) of the Argentine Navy; also for other drill exercises and basic submarine training.