German ship builder thyssenkrupp Marine Systems (tkMS) will demonstrate an in-development lithium-ion battery on a German Navy submarine.
tkMS has been developing the next-generation submarine battery since 2015, undertaking its first test in 2019.
According to Hart Punkt, a “partial” lithium-ion battery will be installed on an existing HDW-class 212A diesel-electric submarine for technology and performance demonstration.
An initial integration on the submarine is planned for 2028, the outlet added, citing tkMS.
French battery-maker Saft is expected to provide lithium cells for the construction of the battery and its power electronics, Hart Punkt wrote.
“thyssenkrupp Marine Systems is now entering the market with a key technology — the most efficient way of storing energy,” the outlet quoted tkMS’ COO Dirk Steinbrink as saying.
The ship builder intends to offer the battery for the HDW-class 209 submarines as well.
Lithium-Ion Battery
Japan’s Sōryū class of submarine, Ōryū, is the world’s first lithium-ion submarine. A more advanced Taigei class vessel also features the technology.
Compared to existing lead-acid batteries, the lithium-ion battery has a greater discharge rate, faster recharge times, and higher energy density.
It improves the submarine’s underwater endurance, speed, and overall performance, even when its charge is low.
Additionally, the lithium-ion is lighter and has a lower maintenance cost compared to a conventional battery.
The lithium-ion battery also makes the use of Air Independent Propulsion technology redundant, saving weight and complexity.