Portal partners
S-80 submarines and new AIP-BEST system. Is that enough for the Spanish to win on ORKA?
Author:Mariusz Dasiewicz
Spanish shipbuilding company Navantia with S-80 submarine and innovative AIP-BEST system enters the fight for Polish Orka submarine program. Will modern technologies and knowledge transfer be enough to convince the Polish Navy to choose a Spanish offer?
In the article
When visiting the Navantii shipyard in Cartagena, it was difficult not to feel that Spain had set itself to future technologies. S-80 submarines, designed and built in this historic shipyard, represent all the best in modern underwater technologies. In the context of the Polish ORKA programme It is these units that can prove the most competitive for the Polish Navy?
Technology for the future
Navantia Shipyard in Cartagena is a place where tradition connects with modernity. During the visit of the Polish and Indian delegation, which was also attended by the editorial board of the Shipyard Portal, advanced ship systems were presented, including a breakthrough air-independent drive AIP-BEST (Air Independent Power) – a key element of modern S-80 submarines. The precision of performance and attention to detail emphasize the importance of these solutions for the operational capabilities of submarines.
Navantia Shipyard in Cartagena, employing about 700 workers and an additional 7,000 people working in cooperation, is one of the most modern submarine construction centres. The production process uses advanced technologies such as sea water pressure simulation to control quality and full-scale prototype testing. Currently ongoing construction of the third unit in the series, S-83 Cosme García, implemented in accordance with the schedule. This unit is the first ship of the S-80 program with an AIP-BEST air-independent propulsion system mounted.
One of the biggest technical successes of the S-80 submarine program is the implementation of the work according to the timetable, which in the maritime industry, characterized by a high degree of technological complexity, is a unique achievement. This success is attributed to the excellent organization and work standards implemented at Navantia shipyard in Cartagena. This is how the Spanish project acquires increasing international recognition, drawing the attention of potential customers and industry experts.
AIP system – why BEST?
The Spanish AIP-independent propulsion system, known as BEST (Bio-Ethanol Stealth Technology), is based on hydrogen production on board through bioethanol reforming. Hydrogen, combined with oxygen stored in cryogenic tanks, feeds fuel cells generating electricity for ship systems. This solution increases operational safety, and the unit's operational secrecy provides carbon dioxide neutralisation systems that dissolve it in seawater, minimising detection.
The BEST system not only significantly prolongs the ship's underwater time – in some cases even three times compared to traditional systems – but also automates operating processes, reducing crew load and allowing it to focus on key mission tasks.
NAVANTIS and simulators
Navantia is not only limited to advanced ship technology, but it also places great emphasis on crew training. For this purpose, NAVANTIS – a family of products that enable crews to train in a simulated environment before boarding the unit.
NAVANTIS shall include such elements as:
- simulation of combat system, integrated navigation or platform management,
- detailed 3D models based on actual unit designs,
- the possibility of exercises in a multi-platform environment.
Thanks to VR and AR NAVANTIS technology allow realistic training that improves the operational efficiency of crews even before boarding the actual unit. The Spanish training offer also includes additional advanced tools:
- SIMTAC – the control centre simulator, enabling training in different operating conditions, from warm seas to Arctic waters,
- simulation capsule – a fully functional model of the control room, allowing to simulate the operation of the ship, including ascent and turbulence,
- NaIT simulator (Navantis Avatar Immersion Tool) – allows the crew to learn the structure of the ship in interactive mode, including in virtual reality (VR). The simulator also simulates threats, such as fire or flooding, which the crew must master.
S-80 the future of the Polish submarine fleet?
S-80 ships are single hull units with a diameter of 7.3 m, designed for quiet and efficient underwater operation, which increases their ability to operate under demanding Baltic conditions. Thanks to the BEST system may remain submerged for up to three weeks, which significantly improves combat capabilities, especially in situations requiring prolonged secrecy. In addition, their design enables installation of the AIP system in both new and older units without having to cut the hull.
If Poland decides to choose a Spanish offer in ORKA, S-83 Cosme García, originally planned for service in Armada Española, will probably be handed over to the Navy of the Republic of Poland within two years – until construction is completed. Such a scenario, allowing the rapid introduction of a modern unit, would be beneficial for MW of Poland, given the urgent need to strengthen the submarine fleet in our country.
What Spain can offer in the ORKA programme
Navantia, a leader in the European shipbuilding industry, already talks with many countries, including Poland. If Warsaw decides to choose a Spanish offer, it can count on not only modern ships, but also the transfer of knowledge and technology, which could significantly strengthen the Polish shipbuilding industry.
S-80 submarines with AIP-BEST are a proposal that can significantly increase the operational potential of the Polish submarine fleet. Their modernity, advanced crew training system and innovative technological solutions make Spain a major competitor in ORKA. However, the final decision will depend on the detailed conditions of cooperation and the needs of the Polish Ministry of Technology. Will the S-80s be a jackpot? Time will tell.
Author: MŁ
