How Long Can a Submarine Stay Underwater?

Submarines, whether diesel or nuclear-powered, must periodically resurface due to energy, communication, resupply, maintenance, and human factors. Diesel submarines need to recharge batteries and vent exhaust, while nuclear submarines surface for communication and resupply. Maintenance and crew welfare also necessitate surfacing. Technological advancements have extended underwater endurance, but limitations remain. Historical strategies have evolved with these needs, affecting both military and civilian submarine use. Despite advancements, submarines must still address core limitations, keeping Jules Verne's Nautilus in the realm of fiction.

What are the main reasons submarines must periodically resurface?

How do diesel submarines recharge their batteries while on the surface?

What role does communication play in the necessity for submarines to resurface?

In what ways do human factors influence the need for submarines to resurface?

How have advancements in technology affected the underwater endurance of submarines?