Submarine Officer Commanding Course (SMOC) and Combined Anti Submarine Warfare Exercises (CASEX). Article by Lt Cdr P.G. van den Berg Photos courtesy of SAS MANTHATISI.

26 June 2007 was the first time since 1982 that South African Navy frigates participated in SMOC and ASW exercises. This was also the first time that the new VALOUR CLASS Frigates participated in these exercises and was seen as a significant highlight in the progression to achieving their capabilities.

Once fired the torpedo rests on the surface for easy recovery.

The exercise ranged from basic familiarisation and tracking exercises to search and attack unit (SAU) exercises. The exercises finally culminated in the SMOC examination of Cdr Souma over the period 27 to 28 June.

SAS UMHLOTI looks on as the divers recovered the torpedo.	A submersible skid is placed under the torpedo to allow for it to be towed.

During these exercises Cdr Souma fired a practice torpedo at SAS SPIOENKOP. This Surface Underwater Target (SUT) torpedo firing was very successful and all objectives of the exercise were met. In the process Cdr Souma also passed his SMOC course.

One of the Frigates as seen through the periscope of the SAS MANTHATISI.	SAS PROTEA was also in the sights of SAS MANTHATISI.