What type of submarines does the ARA San Juan belong to?

The ARA San Juan is classified as a diesel-electric submarine. Diesel-electric submarines operate on diesel engines for surface travel and use electric batteries for underwater operations. This design gives them a significant advantage, particularly in terms of stealth and operational range, as they can remain submerged for extended periods without relying on surface air.

Diesel-electric submarines have been a popular choice for many navies around the world because they are generally more affordable to build and maintain compared to their nuclear counterparts. Moreover, they can be effectively used in various naval operations, including anti-submarine warfare, reconnaissance, and surveillance missions.

The other classifications mentioned don't apply to the ARA San Juan. For example, nuclear-powered submarines rely on nuclear reactors, which allows indefinite underwater endurance but entails a different set of operational characteristics and support. Conventional submarines, while similar to diesel-electric designs, often refer to submarines without specific propulsion systems, and fast attack submarines are usually a term associated with a specific mission profile often attributed to nuclear submarines built for speed and striking power. Thus, the classification of the ARA San Juan as a diesel-electric submarine accurately reflects its design and capabilities.