+
DRDO tests tech for stealthier submarines
Technology

DRDO tests tech for stealthier submarines

The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) conducted the final development test of Air Independent Propulsion (AIP) in Mumbai.

The AIP technology allows a submarine to be submerged for longer periods underwater and makes the sub surface platform more deadly by making it quieter than a nuclear submarine.

The Indian Navy is now planning to retrofit all its Kalvari class non nuclear attack submarines with AIP during their first upgrade, expected around 2023. The 1,615 tonne Kalvari class submarine is being built by Mazagon Dockyards Ltd (MDL) in collaboration with the French Naval Group and is based on Scorpene design.

India now has the AIP technology along with the US, France, China, the UK. The DRDO's AIP technology is based on a Phosphoric Acid Fuel Cell, and the last two Kalvari class submarines will be powered by it. The AIP design was tested on land in Mumbai.

The AIP or marine propulsion technology allows non nuclear submarines to operate without access to atmospheric oxygen (through snorkel or surfacing) and augments the diesel-electric propulsion system of attack submarines. This means that AIP fitted submarines do not have to surface for charging their batteries and remain underwater for long periods. The AIP is retrofitted into existing submarine hulls by adding an additional hull section. The AIP equipped submarines are identified as SSP, while classic diesel attack submarines carry the SSK classification.

While the nuclear submarine generates noise due to the ship's reactor constantly pumping coolant to maintain the engine's temperatures, the AIP equipped submarine maintains a lethal silence. The new technology will allow Indian submarines to take advantage of internal refraction in equatorial waters due to temperature differences on the surface and within the ocean.

Image Source


4th Indian Cement Review Conference 2021

17-18 March 

Click for event info


The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) conducted the final development test of Air Independent Propulsion (AIP) in Mumbai. The AIP technology allows a submarine to be submerged for longer periods underwater and makes the sub surface platform more deadly by making it quieter than a nuclear submarine. The Indian Navy is now planning to retrofit all its Kalvari class non nuclear attack submarines with AIP during their first upgrade, expected around 2023. The 1,615 tonne Kalvari class submarine is being built by Mazagon Dockyards Ltd (MDL) in collaboration with the French Naval Group and is based on Scorpene design. India now has the AIP technology along with the US, France, China, the UK. The DRDO's AIP technology is based on a Phosphoric Acid Fuel Cell, and the last two Kalvari class submarines will be powered by it. The AIP design was tested on land in Mumbai. The AIP or marine propulsion technology allows non nuclear submarines to operate without access to atmospheric oxygen (through snorkel or surfacing) and augments the diesel-electric propulsion system of attack submarines. This means that AIP fitted submarines do not have to surface for charging their batteries and remain underwater for long periods. The AIP is retrofitted into existing submarine hulls by adding an additional hull section. The AIP equipped submarines are identified as SSP, while classic diesel attack submarines carry the SSK classification. While the nuclear submarine generates noise due to the ship's reactor constantly pumping coolant to maintain the engine's temperatures, the AIP equipped submarine maintains a lethal silence. The new technology will allow Indian submarines to take advantage of internal refraction in equatorial waters due to temperature differences on the surface and within the ocean. Image Source4th Indian Cement Review Conference 202117-18 March Click for event info

Next Story
Technology

Six ways a smarter workflow leads to faster, more accurate bids

In today’s fast-paced civil construction environment, estimators need more than just solid numbers. They need smart, streamlined processes. This article explores six key ways connected workflows can transform the estimated approach, help in minimising risk, move faster, and improve accuracy. By integrating tools, data, and teams, one can produce stronger bids with less rework, fewer surprises, and more confidence. As an estimator, the job goes beyond producing numbers. They are responsible for delivering bids that are fast, accurate, and built to win. In today’s civil construction ind..

Next Story
Real Estate

Experion Launches Women-Only Co-Living Project in Greater Noida

Experion, part of Singapore-based AT Capital Group, has launched its first co-living space under its managed rental housing brand, VLIV, in Greater Noida. The all-women residence features 730 twin-sharing beds with a strong focus on safety, comfort, and well-being. VLIV has committed a $300 million investment to create a structured, service-led rental housing ecosystem in India. The brand aims to scale up to 20,000 beds in the next few years, with a long-term target of 100,000 beds nationwide. “India’s rental housing is fragmented. VLIV is our way of building long-term, dependabl..

Next Story
Infrastructure Urban

Officine Maccaferri Acquires CPT to Bolster Tunnelling Tech

Ambienta’s platform company, Officine Maccaferri S.p.A., has acquired CPT Group, a leading Italian developer of robotic prefabrication systems and digital control technologies for mechanised tunnelling. The move positions Maccaferri as a global player in integrated tunnelling solutions, blending traditional and advanced mechanised systems. Based in Nova Milanese, CPT serves major global contractors across Europe, Southeast Asia, and Australia. The company offers robotic prefabrication (Robofactory), productivity-monitoring software for Tunnel Boring Machines (TBMs), and eco-designed spa..

Advertisement

Subscribe to Our Newsletter

Get daily newsletters around different themes from Construction world.

STAY CONNECTED

Advertisement

Advertisement

Advertisement

Talk to us?