History

History of the Atılay Submarine

The Atılay Submarine, a member of the Ay class, was built at Germaniawerft in Kiel. Launched in 1938 and commissioned on May 19, 1939, the ship features a length of 80 m, a width of approximately 6.6 m, and diesel-electric propulsion. The submarine submerged from Morto Bay on July 14, 1942, as part of the testing/calibration of the magnetic security lines (loop) in the Dardanelles. It is believed that the submarine sank after hitting a mine from World War I. The submarine, located at a depth of 65–70 meters, was named by Atatürk.

Academic studies indicate that the submarine settled on its 'hull' at a bottom depth of 65–70 m after the incident, and that the current and depth conditions in the area complicated recovery/investigation activities. Atılay is a platform classified as the Ay class by Turkey, derived from the German Type IX design. The boat's shipyard/delivery and fate information is consistently found in official and secondary literature.

Diving Equipment Information

The equipment used for diving requires basic scuba gear as well as nitrox and technical diving equipment. A dry suit should be worn.

Footage from the Shipwreck

Diving Points