Submarine stealth is target of new research
One of Australia's Collins Class submarines, HMAS Collins.
Photo by the Department of Defence.
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Wednesday, 25 June 2008
Australia's could benefit from new research at the University of ÐÂÀ˲ÊƱ that aims to improve their stealth capabilities.
Submarines are designed to be undetectable and rely on stealth to operate effectively. But keeping such a large vessel quiet is a huge challenge.
The University's will receive funding of $530,000 to investigate a new stealth solution for the Collins Class submarines. The funding has been provided under the , which is managed by the .
"The Collins Class submarines are propelled by electric motors, which makes them almost silent," says research leader from the School of Mechanical Engineering.
"However, if the batteries that power the electric motors become flat, they must be recharged with an electrical generator that is powered by a diesel engine. During the recharging operation the noise from the diesel engines reduces the stealth capabilities of the submarine. The aim of the project is to improve the stealth of the submarine during the recharging operation."
Dr Howard will conduct laboratory testing