Kongsberg Maritime has secured a contract to supply its innovative rim-drive thrusters for a new advanced acoustic research vessel being built for India’s Naval Physical and Oceanographic Laboratory (NPOL). The vessel, under construction at Garden Reach Shipbuilders & Engineers (GRSE), will play a critical role in oceanographic and acoustic research for the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO).
The selection of Kongsberg Maritime’s rim-drive thrusters underscores the technology’s reputation for ultra-quiet operation, a critical requirement for acoustic research. By eliminating the traditional gearbox and using an electric rim-drive motor integrated into the propeller hub, these thrusters deliver exceptional performance, efficiency, and manoeuvrability. This makes them ideal for sensitive scientific missions where minimal underwater noise is paramount.
The thruster package for the new vessel includes two RD-AZ2600 azimuth thrusters, two RD-TT1600 tunnel thrusters, and the MCON control system. These components are designed to work seamlessly together, providing precise control and optimal performance. The azimuth thruster features a six-bladed propeller housed in a nozzle, which improves low-speed thrust and minimises underwater noise. The propeller is integrated with the motor and has no blade tips, reducing cavitation. A permanent magnet motor built into the nozzle eliminates the need for additional cooling, simplifying installation and maintenance. With no gears apart from the steering gear, the design ensures low maintenance requirements.
This contract marks a significant milestone for Kongsberg Maritime, as it surpasses 100 units for rim-drive propulsion systems worldwide. The technology, first launched commercially ten years ago, has become the benchmark for silent, reliable propulsion in research, naval, and specialised commercial vessels. The advanced acoustic research vessel will feature state-of-the-art laboratories and equipment for oceanographic studies, sonar testing, and acoustic signature analysis. With Kongsberg Maritime’s rim-drive thrusters, the vessel will combine operational flexibility with minimal environmental impact, supporting India’s strategic research objectives.
“This contract underscores the growing recognition of our rim-drive technology as the gold standard for silent propulsion,” said a spokesperson for Kongsberg Maritime. “Our thrusters are designed to meet the most demanding underwater noise requirements, ensuring that research vessels like the one being built for NPOL can operate with maximum efficiency and minimal disturbance to the marine environment.”
The delivery of the propulsion systems will align with the vessel’s construction schedule at GRSE, ensuring that the advanced acoustic research vessel will be equipped with cutting-edge technology from the outset. This partnership between Kongsberg Maritime and GRSE highlights the importance of advanced propulsion systems in modern naval and research vessels, setting a new standard for the industry.