GE Vernova press release
The six MRCVs will be the first IFEP-powered vessels for the Republic of Singapore Navy (RSN) and will replace its fleet of mechanical drive Victory-class missile corvettes, which have been in service since 1989. Delivery of the electric propulsion systems for the new ships is planned over the next 10 years.
GE Vernovaโs Shipโs Electric Grid delivers the electrical power required by the shipโs propulsion, and energizes its operational and mission systems, such as radar and communications. With the ability to share electric power to any load on the shipโs power network, the system is more energy-efficient and cost-effective to operate than a conventional mechanical drive configuration.
GE Vernovaโs Shipโs Electric Grid includes all generators, medium-voltage switchboards, transformers, propulsion variable frequency drives (VFDs), electric propulsion motors, thruster motors, soft starters, a shore power connection, power management system (PMS), and the propulsion control system (PCS).
The modular platform design of the RSNโs new MRCVs allows for different naval missions requiring electric power. This includes the ability to host unmanned air and surface vehicles, which will expand the area of each vesselโs surveillance capability.
Andy Cooper, General Manager at GE Vernovaโs Power Conversion UK business, said:
โPower Conversion is pleased to equip the RSNโs new MRCVs with electric power. Like so many other navies around the world, the RSN is adopting an electric ship configuration as an enabler for increased levels of power and energy-efficiency. Being equipped with an electric grid allows a ship the ability to share every bit of available power throughout the vessel, strengthening its energy surety and even helping to reduce greenhouse gas emissionsโ.
With deep expertise in marine and naval performance requirements, GE Vernovaโs Power Conversion UK center of excellence (COE) will be responsible for the design, systems engineering, manufacturing and testing of the equipment. The execution of the project will be supported by the Power Conversion Asia team based in Singapore, who will oversee project engineering, project management, commissioning and sea trials.
GE Vernovaโs Power Conversion business powers the majority of the UK Royal Navyโs large vessel fleet, including Queen Elizabeth Class, Type 45 and Type 26 vessels, as well as many other global naval programs.
-End-
To learn more about MRCV, check out our recent article: