Power Punch

Rohan Ramesh

For any navy, propulsion systems of its vessels are perhaps the most vital aspect. From diesel, gas and electric engines to the most advanced nuclear systems, propulsions systems are at the heart of all kind of sea-faring vessels, from the basic boat to the advanced surface and underwater vessels.

LM2500 gas turbine

Any propulsion system is basically the engine system, which generates the energy drives, say your car, engine, gear-box and shaft. But for aircraft or naval vessels, the fourth element is the propellers to make the craft move through the air or water. Modern naval propulsion systems can be categorised as diesel, gas turbine, electrical or nuclear. The propulsion systems for the navy can differ from its missile boats, corvettes, frigates, destroyers, aircraft carriers, or of course, the submarines.

The vast range vessels of the Indian naval fleet use different propulsion systems, such as steam turbine, diesel, electrical and nuclear. While the nuclear reactor systems are mainly envisioned for advanced strategic vessels of the future, the navy is endeavouring for a more sophisticated steam turbine, diesel and electrical systems. Electrical propulsion systems derive energy from the engine, and virtually run the ship, from moving it, to maintaining all other essential and critical systems, including AC systems, computers, guidance, sonar and fire control in combat vessels.

Most of the propulsion systems in Indian Navy are imported. The effort to indigenise is a continuous endeavour, from the basic systems being supplied by defence PSUs like Bharat Heavy Electricals Limited