Insight: What is the way forward for the propulsion systems of conventional submarines?
In September 2024, Naval Group was awarded a contract to deliver four Orka-class submarines as part of the Walrus Replacement Programme (Image: Naval Group).
Recent advancements in lithium-ion battery (LIB) technology have led to a resurgence of conventional diesel-electric submarines. As a result, shipbuilders like Naval Group have opted to move away from air-independent propulsion (AIP) systems and instead focus on a range of submarines equipped with a full LIB configuration.
AIP has served as a reference point for all countries operating non-nuclear submarines for decades. For example, the Netherlands, which operates older diesel-electric submarines equipped with traditional batteries, has long viewed the future adoption of next-generation AIP submarines as the most logical choice for their procurement needs. Recent developments in LIBs, however, have shuffled the deck in the underwater domain, making AIP-equipped submarines a less obvious procurement option.
Air independent propulsion vs full lithium-ion battery configuration
Whether based on fuel cells or Stirling engines, the AIP system provides energy directly to the electric motor that drives the submarine propeller. The
Already have an account? Log in
Want to keep reading this article?
Read this Article
Get access to this article with a Free Basic Account
- Original curated content, daily across air, land and naval domains
- 2 free stories per week
- Daily news round-up email service
- Access to all Decisive Edge email newsletters
Unlimited Access
Access to all our premium news as a Premium News 365 Member. Corporate subscriptions available.
- Original curated content, daily across air, land and naval domains
- 14-day free trial (cancel at any time)
- Unlimited access to all published premium news
More from Naval Warfare
-
![Navantia signs deal to supply new Avante 2200 corvettes to Saudi Arabia]()
Navantia signs deal to supply new Avante 2200 corvettes to Saudi Arabia
The vessels are the latest additions to an ongoing supply arrangement for Saudi Arabia’s defence force.
-
![Saab Sea Giraffe to protect Swedish Navy]()
Saab Sea Giraffe to protect Swedish Navy
The Swedish manufacturer will supply its Sea Giraffe 1X naval radar in a range of configurations.
-
![South Korean Destroyer fleet approved for US improvement programme]()
South Korean Destroyer fleet approved for US improvement programme
The US State Department has agreed to sell South Korea technology to keep its Destroyer fleet effective as a deterrent.
-
![STM to build logistics support vessels for Portuguese Navy]()
STM to build logistics support vessels for Portuguese Navy
The contract marks the first time the Turkish shipbuilder will build vessels for a NATO member state.
