@axis_roll:
So, does this mean that a sub can always dive?
In other words, the DD’s presence does not negate the ability to dive.
that is the only way to explain how a sub can move into a SZ in NCM: diving avoids any combat.
It has nothing to do with submerging. It has to do with moving in noncombat movement. If a sub wants to fight, it moves into the sea zone in combat movement. If it doesn’t, it moves in noncombat movement. Submerging means escaping combat once the battle begins, not avoiding it entirely. If a sub wants to avoid a fight when moving, it simply doesn’t make its presence known, which means moving in noncombat.
A sub must stop when entering a sea zone with an enemy destroyer not because it can’t submerge there (which it can’t), but because the destroyer’s ability to detect the sub forces it to be more slow and cautious in its movement. The rule concerning a sub stopping in a sea zone with a destroyer deals with movement phases only, while the submerging rules deal with the combat phase only.
As to people not knowing this rule, I’m not I understand that. It’s clearly stated in the Rulebook. The only explanation I can think of is that it’s “baggage” from previous games’ rules.
I think that part of the confusion in this issue lies with the term “submerge” itself. I regret that it was ever used. It (rightfully) has a connotation of submarines moving under the surface. However, it game terms it simply means diving deep to escape combat. I would have preferred the term “disengage”, but it’s too late to change it now.