Navy Undecided on Repairing Research Sub

The Navy has not decided whether to repair its oldest and last diesel-powered submarine almost three months after it nearly sank 100 miles off San Diego, officials said Wednesday.

The research submarine Dolphin suffered $10 million in damage due to massive flooding caused when the wrong gasket installed on a door was unable to withstand the pounding of heavy waves. The May 21 accident occurred as the sub was running on the surface while recharging its batteries.

Navy spokesman Lt. Kim Marks said the Navy is exploring other options for its research and development program rather than repairing the Dolphin.

Built in 1968 as a one-of-a-kind research vessel, the 165-foot, 950-ton sub was involved in testing most of the innovations in sonar, acoustics, weaponry and communications equipment.