HMS Sidon (P259)

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HMS Sidon (P259) was a S-class submarine of the Royal Navy. She was built by Cammell Laird and launched on 4 September 1944. The submarine was named after the ancient Phoenician city of Sidon.

Design and Construction

HMS Sidon was part of the third batch of S-class submarines, which were designed for operations in the North Sea and the Mediterranean. The S-class submarines were known for their improved habitability and endurance compared to earlier classes. Sidon had a length of 217 feet, a beam of 23 feet, and a draught of 11 feet. She was powered by two diesel engines and two electric motors, allowing her to reach a surface speed of 15 knots and a submerged speed of 10 knots.

Service History

HMS Sidon was commissioned into the Royal Navy in 1944, during the final stages of World War II. However, she saw limited action during the war. After the war, Sidon continued to serve in the Royal Navy, participating in various training exercises and patrols.

Incident and Sinking

On 14 June 1955, HMS Sidon was moored at Portland Harbour when an internal explosion occurred. The explosion was caused by a faulty torpedo that detonated inside the submarine. The incident resulted in the deaths of 13 crew members and significant damage to the submarine. Despite efforts to save her, Sidon sank in shallow water. The wreck was later raised and scrapped.

Legacy

The loss of HMS Sidon led to changes in the handling and storage of torpedoes in the Royal Navy. The incident highlighted the dangers associated with the new types of torpedoes being developed during that period.

See Also

• List of submarines of the Royal Navy
• S-class submarine (1940)
• Portland Harbour