Oceanic internal solitary waves at the Indonesian submarine wreckage site

In summary, intense ISW events in the Lombok Strait have remarkable vertical displacements within a few minutes, thereby significantly affecting the underwater navigation and action of submarine. This numerical study concludes an ISW packet with a maximum amplitude of 40 m at the wreckage site on 20 April (UTC) 2021, which is likely the culprit to the sunk KRI Nanggala-402 submarine. Although satellite observations and numerical modelling have illustrated the crucial role of ISWs in the ocean interior, in situ observations of ISWs are needed to tell a more complete story in the future.

Automated summary

In summary, intense Internal Solitary Waves (ISW) events in the Lombok Strait can cause significant vertical displacements within a short period of time, affecting underwater navigation and submarine operations. A numerical study suggests that an ISW packet with a maximum amplitude of 40 meters at the wreckage site on April 20th, 2021, likely led to the sinking of the KRI Nanggala-402 submarine. While satellite observations and numerical modeling have highlighted the importance of ISWs in the ocean, more in situ observations are necessary for a comprehensive understanding in the future.