Vanguard – a new concept of modular ships

Norwegian company Kongsberg Defence & Aerospace presented a comprehensive concept of modular warshipsVanguardwhich combines manned and unmanned capabilities within a single, flexible solution. Designed to increase naval operational readiness and reduce operating costs, conceptVanguardoffers a new model of maritime activities in a rapidly changing safety environment.

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ShipsVanguard– efficiency through COTS flexibility and technology

Thanks to flexible design and advanced systems, the platform was designed and planned with advanced conceptUnmanned systems VanguardThey will provide the Norwegian Sjøforsvaret with a wide range of operational capacity while reducing construction and operation costs. These ships can operate both as patrol platforms and combat support units, adjusting their configuration according to mission needs.

The Vanguard concept is a modern approach to building units that combines proven civil and military technologies. The design of the units has been designed according to the standards of the Norwegian DNV classification company, which allows the use of ready-to-market commercial off-the-shelf technologies. Such an approach significantly reduces the cost of construction and operation, which can be up to 50% lower than traditional warships.

These units use advanced UAV and USV systems, which significantly increases their operational efficiency. The structure includes a midship mission space, serving as a hangar for helicopters and unmanned platforms.Thanks to the systemthe ISO container, the ship can be adapted to new tasks within a few hours, which is crucial in rapidly changing operating environments.

Kongsberg: combining civil standards with military requirements

Construction ships according to the conceptVanguardcomplies with the highest civil standards of the IMO, while taking into account military weapons and communications requirements. Ships are also adapted to operate under difficult hydro-meteorological conditions, making them effective vessels operating in both coastal and high seas.

In one of the configuration options, most of the weapon systems of these units were on the forward deck. The basic equipment includes a medium caliber cannon, and the presented visualization uses the Italian design Leonardo 76 mm/62 Sovraponte. In addition, the hull provides for a cargo space in which four standard TEU containers can be fitted, adapted to carry missilesNSM anti-shippingor other offensive and defensive systems.

Ship propulsion according to conceptVanguardis configured in the exhaust-electric system, which increases operational efficiency and reduces underwater noise emissions. The four diesel engines drive power generators that supply two electric motors responsible for the unit's propulsion. In order to optimize maneuverability and reduce hydrodynamic resistance, drive shafts are placed in gondolas, which further reduces the detection of the unit.

Implementation of the programme Ship construction by conceptVanguardto ensure stable employment in the shipbuilding and arms sector and contribute to Norwegian developmenttechnological thought. Thanks to civil technology and modularity,Vanguardoffers modern and economical solutions adapted to modern operational requirements.

Source: Kongsberg Defence & Aerospace/MD