Technology Assessment of Advanced Propulsion Systems for Some Classes of Combat Vehicles. Volume 1. Summary and Main Text.

摘要

This paper presents the results of a study of propulsion systems for surface combat vehicles which is intended to provide information useful to the Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency in identifying high-payoff R and D prospects. The primary purposes of the paper are to: (1) quantify the technological advances needed to make major improvements in appropriate military propulsion systems and indicate relative payoffs; and (2) provide criteria for evaluation of new propulsion system or subsystem concepts. The scope of the study is limited to an assessment of propulsion systems for four classes of surface combat vehicles: (1) main battle tanks; (2) light, tracked land combat vehicles; (3) high-mobility land combat vehicles; and (4) high-speed (more than 50 knots) ships. For propulsion subsystems, five engine types of (otto, Diesel, gas turbine, closed Brayton, Stirling), three transmission types (mechanical, hydrodynamic, electrical), and four thruster types (tracks, wheels, propellers, waterjets) are examined in some detail. Results are presented in terms of technology goals which are within the bounds of what is judged to be physically possible and which together in relevant sets would have a major impact on the cost or performance of armored land vehicles or of high-speed ships. Relative payoffs within each set of goals are also estimated.