Successful completion of AIP tests for S-80 submarines

The Spanish company NAVANTIA triumphs after successful completion of factory testing of the AIP BEST (Bio-Ethanol Stealth Technology) system for S-80 submarines. These intense tests were carried out in a specially built, unrivalled resort in Cartagena shipyard worldwide.

Conducting tests in a controlled land environment, which perfectly reflects the conditions the system must face when actually going to sea, allowed to thoroughly examine and confirm the full range of operational capabilities of the AIP system.

After the results of the research, the path to using the AIP system on the S-83 ship is now becoming more real. This ship is intended to be a prototype in a series of units using this modern technology. Previously designed ships, Isaac Peral (S-81) and Narciso Monturiol (S-82), were prepared for the potential adaptation of this innovative technology in the future.

The main benefit of using the AIP BEST system is its ability to significantly extend the duration of submarines in immersion. Conventional ships must regularly emerge to load batteries, which exposes them to detection. Thanks to the AIP system, these ships can charge batteries at high depths, which increases their ability to operate underwater.

The key to the success of AIP BEST technology is the use of bioethanol-based fuel cells, allowing hydrogen to be produced on board the ship. As a result, these ships can operate for up to three weeks in immersion with minimal detection risk.

The decade of commitment to this innovative technology underlines the advanced approach of NAVANTIA and solidly strengthens its status as a global pioneer in marine technologies. With the S-80 ship, the company is now perfectly prepared to participate in the Polish ORKA programme. The whole world will be interested in watching NAVANTIA launch S-80 submarines into the international market.

Written by Mariusz Dasiewicz