GAS TURBINE POWER AND PROPULSION OPTIONS FOR THE MODERN WARSHIP

摘要

Modern naval combatants appear to be dividing into three distinct ship types: ocean capable patrol-craft, globally deployable combatants, and the developing new class of fast littoral combatant. Each ship type places different and significant demands on the power and propulsion system. This paper describes the technical and operational issues driving the demands on the power and propulsion system including ship speed, un-refueled endurance, fuel type, on-board maintenance and the new electric mission-systems. Gas turbine powered mechanical-geared systems, gas turbine alternator powered integrated full-electric systems and hybrid mechanical/electrical systems are all examined and their contribution to the success of the system is discussed.