Topics Covered:
- Science and Technology- developments and their applications and effects in everyday life Achievements of Indians in science & technology; indigenization of technology and developing new technology.
Air-independent propulsion
What to study?
For Prelims: Features and operation.
For Mains: Significance and the need for it.
Context: DRDO is a step closer to boosting endurance of submarines with the indigenous Air Independent Propulsion (AIP) System. It has successfully tested the operation of the indigenous land-based prototype.
What is Air-independent propulsion?
It is any technology which allows a non-nuclear submarine to operate without the need to access atmospheric oxygen (by surfacing or using a snorkel).
It can augment or replace the diesel-electric propulsion system of non-nuclear vessels.
It is based on the combustion of stored oxygen and ethanol to augment battery-powered propulsion.
Significance of AIP:
- AIP significantly improves stealth because it enables a submarine to generate electricity for services and battery charging and propulsion while completely submerged.
- AIP systems also generate electricity, powering a submarine to operate and also generate oxygen, lighting and amenities for crew.
- The Non-nuclear submarines running on battery power or AIP can be virtually silent.
Sources: the hindu.
