A new-build Special and Diving Operations – Submarine Rescue Ship (SDO-SuRS) being constructed by T.Mariotti for the Italian Navy (Marina Militare Italiana) will benefit from a host of equipment delivered by Kongsberg Maritime.
Central to the project is Kongsberg’s fully electric Elegance propulsion pod system which combines direct electric PMM-driven (permanent magnet motor) pods with one of the company’s electrical power systems, consisting of batteries and a power management solution. The permanent magnet electric motor enables precise and efficient vessel operation, in addition to optimal efficiency over a large speed range.
The sustainable solution will enable the vessel to operate in a fully electric mode for zero emissions in port, or for shorter offshore operations. Furthermore, the pods have been designed with a low oil content and a double barrier seal to ensure the ocean environment is protected.
Kongsberg’s supply scope also includes three tunnel thrusters, an Mcon propulsion control system, a DP3 (dynamic positioning) system, and single and multibeam echo sounders.
The 120m-long new-build will replace the Nave Anteo which has reached the end of its service life after 45 years. In addition to fulfilling the needs of the specialized unit, the vessel will also support several other military and civil underwater activities, and special operations.
“This contract represents the start of an exciting market development for the Elegance pod propulsion systems,” said Ottar Ristesund, SVP sales, Kongsberg Maritime. “The quiet, efficient operation of these traction propeller-equipped units on board the SDO-SuRS vessel will help show the naval shipbuilding industry that the way ahead is with permanent magnet pod propulsors. Not only do they offer the end user an efficient, noiseless and carbon-reducing future-proof propulsion platform, but shipyards love them too as the units utilize simple interfaces that allow safe and easy fitting to the hull.”
“SDO-SuRS is a demanding project and requires the highest level of technology to ensure performance and safety,” added Marco Ghiglione, managing director, T.Mariotti.