Prototypes of Collaborative Effort with Saft on Show

At Euronaval 2018 in Paris this week, thyssenkrupp Marine Systems will unveil the prototypes of a new lithium-ion battery system for submarines, which it has developed in collaboration with Saft: in an adapted form, the system could also be used for other maritime applications in future.

“The use of the new battery technology has enormous tactical advantages. We are entering a new era of submarine construction,” explained thyssenkrupp Marine Systems CEO, Dr. Rolf Wirtz. “[…] tests have been extremely successful so far. In the coming year, we want to have completed the sample inspections required for the approval.”

Compared to existing lead-acid batteries, maintenance for the new units is negligible and service lifetime is much higher: regardless of battery charge, a submarine can move at maximum speed. In addition to a system design tailored to safety and to the particular requirements of maritime operations, as well as safe cell chemistry, a series of tests has already successfully demonstrated safety at battery cell and system level.

The system was designed as part of a study carried out on behalf of the German procurement office, BAAINBw, to support integration into new submarine projects for the HDW 212 class, as well as retrofit solutions for existing platforms. Concepts for an adapted design for integration into the HDW 214 class are planned. The system’s modular design makes it adaptable, in principle, for any naval application.

Additional exhibits of interest to Euronaval delegates and visitors will be the ‘kta’ naval systems consoles from the combat management system developed for the Type 212CD submarine and a range of capability enhancements, such as a new fuel cell system.