INS Kalvari will receive its indigenous AIP system next year

[DDG-80]

DRDO’s Fuel Cell-Based AIP Technology will Revolutionize India’s Submarine Capabilities​

The underwater trials of indigenous fuel based Air Independent Propulsion system is expected to start next year. The trial will be conducted by the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO).

AIP technology significantly enhances the submerged endurance capability of submarines. Prior to this, the DRDO conducted successful shore-based prototype testing in 2021.

If the contract for 3 additional Scorpenes is signed by the end of this year, the first submarine equipped with AIP technology is expected to join the Indian Navy by 2030-31. By that time, the DRDO will have begun delivering AIP systems for both the new submarines and the existing Scorpene submarines in service.

An eco-friendly aspect of this AIP technology is that the by-product of the reaction is non-polluting water, which can be safely released into the oceans.

Private players like L&T and Thermax have played a significant role in supporting the development of this AIP technology. The technology for AIP has been transferred to L&T.

The successful implementation of the fuel cell-based AIP system marks a major milestone for India’s naval capabilities and signifies a significant step towards eco-friendly and technologically advanced submarine operations.

The AIP system serves as a powerful force multiplier for diesel electric submarines, significantly boosting their submerged endurance by several folds. With its unique capability of generating hydrogen onboard, it outperforms other technologies in terms of performance. NMRL, with the unwavering support of Indian industry partners, has successfully developed this cutting-edge technology, which has now reached a stage of maturity ready for industrialization.

Worth mentioning is the successful testing of the land-based prototype of NMRL’s AIP, paving the way for the detailed design certification of the energy module. NMRL, in collaboration with Indian industry partners, will take the lead in this endeavor. The integration of the indigenous AIP into Indian submarines by Naval Group of France will also involve the design of the impacted platforms. This cooperative effort will set the stage for the localization and industrialization of the AIP, including hull fabrication, by the Indian industry, with future plans for onboard fitting on submarines.

The integration of the indigenous AIP system in INS Kalvari will undoubtedly reinforce the country’s naval capabilities and herald a new era of self-sufficiency in defence innovation.

 

[War Lord]

Looks old

Dauym the first one's are from 1999

And it's already been detected by the PN P3C Orion ASW aircraft, in the Pakistani EEZ 86 miles from Gwadar.

Source: https://www.dawn.com/news/1467885

Hopefully the AIP makes it "undetectable" next time.

 

[DDG-80]

Underwater Warriors: Inside the Capabilities of India's Newest Kalvari-Class Submarine​

In 2023, the Indian Navy bolstered its maritime defense with the induction of INS Vagir, the fifth Kalvari-class submarine, enhancing capabilities in anti-surface warfare, intelligence, and surveillance. Developed under Project-75, this class is an adaptation of the French Scorpene-class, realized through collaboration between French and Indian shipyards. The Kalvari-class, aiming to replace older Indian submarines, is known for its advanced technology, including the SUBTICS combat system, Thales sonar suite, and Exocet missiles, ensuring formidable underwater prowess. Amidst growing regional tensions, particularly with China and Pakistan’s naval expansions, India’s Kalvari-class submarines emerge as a strategic counter, reinforcing India's presence in the Indian Ocean.

In 2023, the Indian Navy received the fifth submarine of its Kalvari-class. INS Vagir officially entered service in late January, where it began conducting various missions, including anti-surface warfare, mine laying, intelligence gathering, and surveillance missions.


The Kalvari-class, constructed under Project-75, is an export variant of the French-designed Scorpene-class submarine. The subs are being built by a syndicate of both French and Indian shipyards.

INS Vagsheer, the last planned Kalvari ship to be launched, is expected to enter service next month. Equipped with sophisticated sensors and a formidable weapons package, India’s new submarine-class may serve as an important counter to the Chinese Navy’s growing presence in the Indian Ocean.

The Kalvari-class was conceptualized over two decades ago as a replacement for India’s aging Sindhughosh and Shishuar-class submarines. In 1997, India’s Ministry of Defense first approved the procurement of two Type 209/1500 attack submarines.

Two years later, the French-based Thomson-CSF agreed to participate in the design and production process, and by the end of the decade, a two-phase plan to construct two dozen submarines over 30 years was approved. The lead ship of the submarine class, INS Kalvari, was launched in 2015, followed by INS Khanderi, INS Jaranj, INS Vela, and INS Vagir.

Specs & Capabilities​

The Kalvari ships have a submerged displacement of 1,550 tons and can accommodate 24-31 crew members. These submarines feature a range of advanced technologies, including DCNS’ SUBTICS integrated combat system, which simplifies the operation and control of all on-board weapons, sensors, and radar.

Armament-wise, the Kalvari ships are quite lethal. Each submarine in this class is equipped with six torpedo launching tubes, 18 heavy weapons, precision-guided weapons and MBDA SM-39 Exocet anti-ship missiles.

Sensor-wise, the Kalvari-class is equally well-equipped.

As detailed by Naval Technology, “The Thales-developed on-board S-CUBE integrated and modular submarine sonar suite offers increased safety against a wide variety of threats in deep or coastal waters. It comprises sonar arrays, including bow, stern, planar flank, intercept, distributed, towed and active, as well as mine and obstacle avoidance sonar, and self-noise-monitoring hydrophones.”

The Kalvari submarines are also fitted with Sagem surveillance and radars, which gives them the ability to detect and identify surface targets. Each ship in the Kalvari class is able to remain submerged for three weeks at speeds in excess of 20 knots, thanks to the incorporation of conventional diesel-electric propulsion systems.

Regional Threats are Rising:​

The introduction of the Kalvari-class ships came as China and Pakistan continued to strengthen their respective naval capabilities. Additionally, Beijing is in the process of delivering eight new submarines to Islamabad.

The Hangor-class diesel-electric attack submarines are being constructed in a joint partnership between the Karachi Shipyard and Engineering Works and the China Shipbuilding Industry Corporation for Pakistan’s Navy.

New Delhi’s growing submarine capabilities, expanding via its Kalvari-class, will serve as a critical deterrent to China and Pakistan.

Underwater Warriors: Inside the Capabilities of India's Newest Kalvari-Class Submarine

In 2023, the Indian Navy bolstered its maritime defense with the induction of INS Vagir, the fifth Kalvari-class submarine, enhancing capabilities in anti-surface warfare, intelligence, and surveillance.

nationalinterest.org

 

[DDG-80]

Looks old

Dauym the first one's are from 1999

Hopefully the AIP makes it "undetectable" next time.

The DRDO AIP uses phosphoric acid fuel cells which don't need pure hydrogen. The cells can operate with slightly impure hydrogen, facilitating onboard generation of the highly combustible gas making the AIP safer than designs that rely on storage of 99.999 % pure hydrogen.
With the DRDO system, hydrogen generation is finely tuned to propulsive power requirements. If the boat needs to sail fast, more hydrogen is generated and vice versa.

 

[DDG-80]

And it's already been detected by the PN P3C Orion ASW aircraft, in the Pakistani EEZ 86 miles from Gwadar.

Source: https://www.dawn.com/news/1467885

Hopefully the AIP makes it "undetectable" next time.

Don't worry, next time they'll be launching SLCMs and HWTs from safe standoff distances

 

[War Lord]

The DRDO AIP uses phosphoric acid fuel cells which don't need pure hydrogen. The cells can operate with slightly impure hydrogen, facilitating onboard generation of the highly combustible gas making the AIP safer than designs that rely on storage of 99.999 % pure hydrogen.
With the DRDO system, hydrogen generation is finely tuned to propulsive power requirements. If the boat needs to sail fast, more hydrogen is generated and vice versa.

That just means that DRDO hasn't found a way to store Hydrogen abroad. No worries though it'll take them time, if they ever venture that way.

Also:

While AIP (Air Independent Propulsion) systems can utilize various technologies, including Stirling engines and fuel cells, they typically don't use phosphoric acid fuel cells (PAFCs). Instead, proton exchange membrane fuel cells (PEMFCs) or solid oxide fuel cells (SOFCs) are more commonly used in AIP systems due to their higher power density, efficiency, and compactness, which are crucial for submarine applications. PAFCs are more commonly found in stationary power generation and some niche applications due to their lower power density and operating temperature.

---

Air Independent Propulsion (AIP) systems are designed to allow submarines to operate without the need to surface or snorkel for extended periods. Several technologies can be employed for AIP:

1. Stirling Engines: These are external combustion engines that use a closed-cycle regenerative process. They are highly efficient and can run on various fuels such as diesel, gasoline, or hydrogen. Stirling engines are widely used in AIP systems due to their reliability and low noise signature.
2. Fuel Cells: Fuel cell technology, such as proton exchange membrane fuel cells (PEMFCs) or solid oxide fuel cells (SOFCs), can be used in AIP systems. These cells produce electricity through the electrochemical reaction between hydrogen and oxygen, typically sourced from stored hydrogen and ambient air, respectively.
3. Closed-Cycle Diesel Engines: These engines operate similarly to traditional diesel engines but use a sealed system that circulates exhaust gases within the engine, preventing the release of emissions into the atmosphere. Closed-cycle diesel engines can utilize liquid oxygen or stored oxygen as the oxidizer, allowing the submarine to remain submerged for extended periods.
4. Bioethanol or Biofuel Cells: Some research explores the use of bioethanol or biofuel cells in AIP systems. These cells generate electricity through the electrochemical oxidation of bioethanol or other biofuels, offering a potentially renewable and environmentally friendly power source.

Each of these technologies has its advantages and challenges, including factors such as efficiency, power density, noise levels, and compatibility with submarine design and operational requirements. Submarine designers often select the AIP technology based on a combination of these factors to optimize the performance and capabilities of the submarine for its intended missions.

---
Determining the "best" AIP technology depends on various factors, including the specific requirements of the submarine, such as mission profile, operational environment, cost considerations, and technological maturity. Each of the four ways has its advantages and limitations:

1. Stirling Engines: Stirling engines are highly efficient and have a low acoustic signature, making them well-suited for quiet operations. They have been extensively used in AIP systems and are known for their reliability. However, they can be relatively complex and costly to manufacture.
2. Fuel Cells: Fuel cells, particularly proton exchange membrane fuel cells (PEMFCs), offer high efficiency and low noise levels, making them suitable for quiet operations. They produce electricity through an electrochemical reaction and can be powered by various fuels, including hydrogen. However, fuel cell technology can be expensive, and the infrastructure for hydrogen storage and distribution may not be readily available in some areas.
3. Closed-Cycle Diesel Engines: Closed-cycle diesel engines can provide extended underwater endurance and are relatively simple in design. They offer good efficiency and can be quieter compared to traditional diesel engines, especially when combined with effective noise reduction measures. However, they may require the onboard storage of liquid oxygen or other oxidizers, which can add complexity and safety considerations.
4. Bioethanol or Biofuel Cells: Biofuel cells offer the potential for renewable and environmentally friendly power generation. However, their development is still in the early stages, and they may face challenges related to efficiency, power density, and scalability compared to other AIP technologies.

In terms of cost-effectiveness and quietness, Stirling engines and fuel cells (such as PEMFCs) are generally considered favorable options. Stirling engines have a proven track record in submarine applications and offer high efficiency and low noise levels. Fuel cells, while potentially more expensive upfront, can provide quiet and efficient operation, especially when powered by hydrogen. The choice between these options would depend on the specific requirements and budget constraints of the submarine program.

---

Majority of this post was created with the help of ChatGPT 3.5

But I stand corrected, this AIP and the sub itself are an older, weaker design...

 

[War Lord]

Don't worry, next time they'll be launching SLCMs and HWTs at standoff ranges

View attachment 21829

Probably getting caught too while launching them

 

[DDG-80]

That just means that DRDO hasn't found a way to store Hydrogen abroad. No worries though it'll take them time, if they ever venture that way.

Also:

While AIP (Air Independent Propulsion) systems can utilize various technologies, including Stirling engines and fuel cells, they typically don't use phosphoric acid fuel cells (PAFCs). Instead, proton exchange membrane fuel cells (PEMFCs) or solid oxide fuel cells (SOFCs) are more commonly used in AIP systems due to their higher power density, efficiency, and compactness, which are crucial for submarine applications. PAFCs are more commonly found in stationary power generation and some niche applications due to their lower power density and operating temperature.

---

Air Independent Propulsion (AIP) systems are designed to allow submarines to operate without the need to surface or snorkel for extended periods. Several technologies can be employed for AIP:

1. Stirling Engines: These are external combustion engines that use a closed-cycle regenerative process. They are highly efficient and can run on various fuels such as diesel, gasoline, or hydrogen. Stirling engines are widely used in AIP systems due to their reliability and low noise signature.
2. Fuel Cells: Fuel cell technology, such as proton exchange membrane fuel cells (PEMFCs) or solid oxide fuel cells (SOFCs), can be used in AIP systems. These cells produce electricity through the electrochemical reaction between hydrogen and oxygen, typically sourced from stored hydrogen and ambient air, respectively.
3. Closed-Cycle Diesel Engines: These engines operate similarly to traditional diesel engines but use a sealed system that circulates exhaust gases within the engine, preventing the release of emissions into the atmosphere. Closed-cycle diesel engines can utilize liquid oxygen or stored oxygen as the oxidizer, allowing the submarine to remain submerged for extended periods.
4. Bioethanol or Biofuel Cells: Some research explores the use of bioethanol or biofuel cells in AIP systems. These cells generate electricity through the electrochemical oxidation of bioethanol or other biofuels, offering a potentially renewable and environmentally friendly power source.

Each of these technologies has its advantages and challenges, including factors such as efficiency, power density, noise levels, and compatibility with submarine design and operational requirements. Submarine designers often select the AIP technology based on a combination of these factors to optimize the performance and capabilities of the submarine for its intended missions.

---
Determining the "best" AIP technology depends on various factors, including the specific requirements of the submarine, such as mission profile, operational environment, cost considerations, and technological maturity. Each of the four ways has its advantages and limitations:

1. Stirling Engines: Stirling engines are highly efficient and have a low acoustic signature, making them well-suited for quiet operations. They have been extensively used in AIP systems and are known for their reliability. However, they can be relatively complex and costly to manufacture.
2. Fuel Cells: Fuel cells, particularly proton exchange membrane fuel cells (PEMFCs), offer high efficiency and low noise levels, making them suitable for quiet operations. They produce electricity through an electrochemical reaction and can be powered by various fuels, including hydrogen. However, fuel cell technology can be expensive, and the infrastructure for hydrogen storage and distribution may not be readily available in some areas.
3. Closed-Cycle Diesel Engines: Closed-cycle diesel engines can provide extended underwater endurance and are relatively simple in design. They offer good efficiency and can be quieter compared to traditional diesel engines, especially when combined with effective noise reduction measures. However, they may require the onboard storage of liquid oxygen or other oxidizers, which can add complexity and safety considerations.
4. Bioethanol or Biofuel Cells: Biofuel cells offer the potential for renewable and environmentally friendly power generation. However, their development is still in the early stages, and they may face challenges related to efficiency, power density, and scalability compared to other AIP technologies.

In terms of cost-effectiveness and quietness, Stirling engines and fuel cells (such as PEMFCs) are generally considered favorable options. Stirling engines have a proven track record in submarine applications and offer high efficiency and low noise levels. Fuel cells, while potentially more expensive upfront, can provide quiet and efficient operation, especially when powered by hydrogen. The choice between these options would depend on the specific requirements and budget constraints of the submarine program.

---

Majority of this post was created with the help of ChatGPT 3.5

But I stand corrected, this AIP and the sub itself are an older, weaker design...

Underwater Orchestra

 

[DDG-80]

That just means that DRDO hasn't found a way to store Hydrogen abroad. No worries though it'll take them time, if they ever venture that way.

Also:

While AIP (Air Independent Propulsion) systems can utilize various technologies, including Stirling engines and fuel cells, they typically don't use phosphoric acid fuel cells (PAFCs). Instead, proton exchange membrane fuel cells (PEMFCs) or solid oxide fuel cells (SOFCs) are more commonly used in AIP systems due to their higher power density, efficiency, and compactness, which are crucial for submarine applications. PAFCs are more commonly found in stationary power generation and some niche applications due to their lower power density and operating temperature.

---

Air Independent Propulsion (AIP) systems are designed to allow submarines to operate without the need to surface or snorkel for extended periods. Several technologies can be employed for AIP:

1. Stirling Engines: These are external combustion engines that use a closed-cycle regenerative process. They are highly efficient and can run on various fuels such as diesel, gasoline, or hydrogen. Stirling engines are widely used in AIP systems due to their reliability and low noise signature.
2. Fuel Cells: Fuel cell technology, such as proton exchange membrane fuel cells (PEMFCs) or solid oxide fuel cells (SOFCs), can be used in AIP systems. These cells produce electricity through the electrochemical reaction between hydrogen and oxygen, typically sourced from stored hydrogen and ambient air, respectively.
3. Closed-Cycle Diesel Engines: These engines operate similarly to traditional diesel engines but use a sealed system that circulates exhaust gases within the engine, preventing the release of emissions into the atmosphere. Closed-cycle diesel engines can utilize liquid oxygen or stored oxygen as the oxidizer, allowing the submarine to remain submerged for extended periods.
4. Bioethanol or Biofuel Cells: Some research explores the use of bioethanol or biofuel cells in AIP systems. These cells generate electricity through the electrochemical oxidation of bioethanol or other biofuels, offering a potentially renewable and environmentally friendly power source.

Each of these technologies has its advantages and challenges, including factors such as efficiency, power density, noise levels, and compatibility with submarine design and operational requirements. Submarine designers often select the AIP technology based on a combination of these factors to optimize the performance and capabilities of the submarine for its intended missions.

---
Determining the "best" AIP technology depends on various factors, including the specific requirements of the submarine, such as mission profile, operational environment, cost considerations, and technological maturity. Each of the four ways has its advantages and limitations:

1. Stirling Engines: Stirling engines are highly efficient and have a low acoustic signature, making them well-suited for quiet operations. They have been extensively used in AIP systems and are known for their reliability. However, they can be relatively complex and costly to manufacture.
2. Fuel Cells: Fuel cells, particularly proton exchange membrane fuel cells (PEMFCs), offer high efficiency and low noise levels, making them suitable for quiet operations. They produce electricity through an electrochemical reaction and can be powered by various fuels, including hydrogen. However, fuel cell technology can be expensive, and the infrastructure for hydrogen storage and distribution may not be readily available in some areas.
3. Closed-Cycle Diesel Engines: Closed-cycle diesel engines can provide extended underwater endurance and are relatively simple in design. They offer good efficiency and can be quieter compared to traditional diesel engines, especially when combined with effective noise reduction measures. However, they may require the onboard storage of liquid oxygen or other oxidizers, which can add complexity and safety considerations.
4. Bioethanol or Biofuel Cells: Biofuel cells offer the potential for renewable and environmentally friendly power generation. However, their development is still in the early stages, and they may face challenges related to efficiency, power density, and scalability compared to other AIP technologies.

In terms of cost-effectiveness and quietness, Stirling engines and fuel cells (such as PEMFCs) are generally considered favorable options. Stirling engines have a proven track record in submarine applications and offer high efficiency and low noise levels. Fuel cells, while potentially more expensive upfront, can provide quiet and efficient operation, especially when powered by hydrogen. The choice between these options would depend on the specific requirements and budget constraints of the submarine program.

---

Majority of this post was created with the help of ChatGPT 3.5

But I stand corrected, this AIP and the sub itself are an older, weaker design...

 

[War Lord]

Underwater Orchestra
View attachment 21830

Do mention your source...

Indian sterling engines are no match for the industry standard established worldwide.

Gotland-class submarine - Wikipedia

en.wikipedia.org

If I'm not wrong these subs with their "sterling" engines played a game of hide and seek with a US air carrier battle group......the carrier and its escorts never knew where the sub came from and where it vanished to.

 

[War Lord]

Looks like a basic old design lol

 

[DDG-80]

Do mention your source...

View attachment 21831

Indian sterling engines are no match for the industry standard established worldwide.

Gotland-class submarine - Wikipedia

en.wikipedia.org

If I'm not wrong these subs with their "sterling" engines played a game of hide and seek with a US air carrier battle group......the carrier and its escorts never knew where the sub came from and where it vanished to.

Chinese submarines are getting caught by India's ASW assets at regular intervals.

 

[War Lord]

Chinese submarines are getting caught by India's ASW assets at regular intervals.

Source??

 

[War Lord]

There's no need for negative remarks, and no need for me to worry about this outdated sub lmao

Pakistan already produces a lot of stuff, including nukes.

 

[GatlingGun]

Looks like a basic old design lol

What is your qualification to call it "old" based on "looks". Chatgpt ??