VSPs increase the level of safety during minesweeping operations. (Voith)
Spanish minesweepers with VSPs support the search for storm victims off Valencia
In the fall of 2024, the Spanish Navy demonstrated the versatility of its Segura-class minesweepers in a special civilian mission: Both vessels, Segura and Sella, equipped with the Voith Schneider Propeller (VSP) supported the local rescue teams in their search for victims of the disastrous storm off the coast of Valencia. The mission unequivocally demonstrated the fact that the VSP’s properties make it an ideal propulsion concept for both military and civilian applications.
In service since 1999, the Segura class is specially designed for missions in narrow and dangerous waters in coastal areas, where it sweeps for objects that could cause damage to ships. Once identified, objects such as sea mines are safely removed.
The heart of the ship’s propulsion system is the Voith Schneider Propeller (VSP). Its ability to variably adjust thrust direction and force ensures outstanding maneuverability and therefore precise navigation in shallow coastal water areas – a decisive advantage when searching for victims whose bodies are often barely visible in the water. “Its outstanding maneuverability – even in shallow waters and at low speeds – makes the VSP the ideal propulsion system for critical missions,” explains Oliver Lenz, Application Manager at Voith Turbo. The level of steering precision it provides allows for fast and accurate course corrections, which can be life-saving in hazardous situations.
That is why Spanish civilian authorities habitually rely on the capabilities of the Segura class for rescue missions: For example, for the recovery of a sunken SAR helicopter in January 2010, to provide support for a Spanish campaign to protect underwater archaeological heritage sites in September 2010 and besides the Segura class is also widely used also in rescue operations.
The VSP’s properties are not only essential for civilian applications, of course. Minesweeping – the main task of the Segura class – is also more efficient and safer thanks to the VSP. The low magnetic signature of the drive minimizes the risk of causing magnetically triggered mines to detonate during the mission. At the same time, the low noise emissions make it harder for acoustic mines to detect the ship. Should a detonation nevertheless occur, the VSP has a high degree of shock resistance, a fact that has been confirmed by physical tests. The VSP therefore guarantees maximum level of safety during operations, even under the most adverse and dangerous conditions. “Our technology makes it possible to react quickly to changing situations and to organize our missions in an efficient and safe manner,” Lenz adds.
With its combination of sustainability and technical excellence, the VSP is setting the standard for maritime applications. The drive concept reduces energy consumption and minimizes wear, thereby lowering operating costs. At the same time, the VSP meets the most stringent requirements, making it an ideal drive system for military and civilian operations.
