Navantia Proposes Complete ToT of its BEST AIP Bio-Ethanol Stealth Tech to India's P-75(I) and Future P-76 Sub Projects

In a move that could significantly advance India's submarine capabilities, Spanish shipyard Navantia has offered a complete Transfer of Technology (ToT) for its cutting-edge Air-Independent Propulsion (AIP) system, known as Bio-Ethanol Stealth Technology (BEST).

This unprecedented offer positions Navantia as a strong contender in India's strategic submarine programs, including the ambitious Project-75 (I) and future initiatives like Project-76.

The BEST system represents a major leap in submarine propulsion technology. It allows submarines to recharge their batteries while submerged, eliminating the need for periodic snorkelling, a manoeuvre that exposes the vessel to detection.

This innovative system utilizes a bioethanol reforming process, using a renewable fuel derived from organic feedstock, to produce hydrogen on demand. This hydrogen is then combined with pure oxygen in a fuel cell to generate electrical power silently and with minimal emissions.

Unlike many existing AIP systems, Navantia's BEST technology eliminates the need to store hydrogen onboard, a significant advantage in terms of both safety and operational flexibility. By producing hydrogen on demand, the system mitigates the risks associated with storing large quantities of compressed gas within the confined space of a submarine. This enhances the submarine's strategic autonomy, deterrence potential, and crew safety.

Navantia claims its BEST system is a third-generation AIP solution, a generation ahead of the Fuel-Cell-based AIP system developed by India's DRDO. This technological edge, according to Navantia, translates to superior stealth, endurance, and operational simplicity. The system's extensive sensorization reduces the manpower required for operation while enhancing safety and efficiency.

Crucially, Navantia's offer includes complete ToT for the BEST system, extending beyond Project-75 (I) to encompass future submarine programs like Project-76, under which India plans to develop 12 advanced conventional submarines.

This ToT would empower Indian shipyards and research organizations to domestically manufacture and further develop this advanced AIP technology. If accepted, Navantia's proposal could significantly enhance India's submarine capabilities and contribute to its goal of achieving self-reliance in critical defence technologies. The BEST system offers a compelling combination of stealth, endurance, and safety, making it a potentially game-changing technology for India's underwater fleet.

 

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[sanket]

First it has to test it & prove it under water rather than over water the AIP system

 

[Rinku Pandey]

No need. Bharat has its own AIP technology which is best.

 

[Anant]

No need. Bharat has its own AIP technology which is best.

We have our own AIP technology. Just how good it is remains to be seen.

 

[Radha Ramanan]

We should understand that TOT is not possible unless Collins Aerospace of the US also agrees. Collins has co-developed the fuel cell. Collins is a leader in fuel cell tech, and the AIP is not owned by Spain alone. Well, we have to wait for the final decision.

In my opinion, going for the German sub is better, as Germans were always leading in submarine tech right since the 2nd World War. It's more silent than the Spanish sub. The problem with Germany is they are a woke leftist country who will sanction at the drop of a hat. They did not allow us to import even small arms from H&K - MP5 and other guns - citing human rights violations by the armed forces. Only now have they realized the power of India and are coming to us for our money power.

 

[Pramkumar]

This offer shows how important our own technology is. Since DRDO already developed the AIP, Navantia has no choice but to offer 100% TOT to lure India.

DRDO should make the Kaveri integrate with Tejas. Then, Safran, RR, and GE will come for 100% tech support.

 

[Sumon Roy]

Type CD 212 Submarine is best Conventional Submarines of it's class. Indian Navy needs German Submarines. It is combat proven Submarine on the other hand S-80 is completely new.

 

[Surendra Barsode]

India must accept such offers for full ToT just as India must join the 6th Gen fighter program with Italy, UK and Japan. This ToT from Nevantia Spain will help DRDO work further on this new technology and also apply it for other civilian uses.

 

[Biju UK]

For the last decade or so, we have had most of the defence deals coming with varying percentages of TOT. There has been TOT on literally all purchases. Who is overseeing the TOT? Are we building on it? Or is it just a way to justify the high costs?

 

[Jagroshan]

So, effectively the submarine has to carry organic feedstock instead of hydrogen?

I am not convinced by the effectiveness and advantage of this so-called BEST system because now you need one more system (bioethanol reforming process) in submarine to produce hydrogen from that organic feedstock. Rest process goona be same as the normal AIP one which was also developed/or in-development by DRDO.

 

[Sandeep]

India needs to quickly decide and start manufacturing these submarines as we need to replace our older ones and add more submarines than what we currently have.

The best option is to choose the German submarines as they have a reliable and effective AIP that’s been operational and a proven system for a number of years. Also the technology, equipment and parts have been designed and developed by Germany.

The problem with the Spanish AIP is that it’s a new form of technology which hasn’t been a proven and reliable system for a number of years. Another problem is that a lot of the technology, parts, components and equipment is imported from Europe or USA. This can lead to complications whenever we want to upgrade or buy a part that has been damaged or it’s not working properly etc.

 

[PKPRS]

No need. Bharat has its own AIP technology which is best.

If ours is so good we wouldn’t be hunting for a foreign SUB with Worlds two top AIP technology, Navantia’s AIP is even better than German snd Swede’s Stirling, but other aspects are better in Type-212/214 like stealth and others, it would be better if we ho with Germany first and then Spain just for the AIP tech for project 76.