Spain Unveils Future Of Maritime Power As Abb To Equip Two Vessels With Revolutionary Electric Propulsion

ABB to Power Two Coastal Hydrographic Vessels for Spanish Navy, Embodying a Pioneering Approach to Maritime Innovation

ABB has secured a contract with Navantia, the Spanish state-owned shipbuilding and design company, to supply two forthcoming Spanish Navy coastal hydrographic vessels (BHC) with an integrated DC-based power distribution and propulsion system. Scheduled for delivery by 2028, these new vessels will play a vital role in mapping and studying Spain’s coastal waters, contributing to national defense, environmental monitoring, and maritime safety.

The partnership between ABB and Navantia marks a milestone in the Spanish Navy’s efforts to modernize its fleet with cutting-edge technology. The new vessels are designed to operate in demanding environments, where energy efficiency, reliability, and flexibility are paramount. ABB’s Onboard DC Grid platform, specifically tailored for specialized vessels operating in complex environments, will provide the backbone of the hydrographic vessels’ power system.

ABB’s integrated scope of supply encompasses a comprehensive range of components, including transformers, thruster motors, batteries, and an Onboard DC Grid with Power Electronic Management System (PEMS). This holistic approach ensures seamless integration of all systems, ensuring optimal performance, energy efficiency, and reliability. The PEMS will optimize the vessels’ total power resources, integrating variable speed generators, energy storage systems, and facilitating easy integration of future energy sources.

The Spanish Navy’s decision to adopt ABB’s technology reflects its commitment to advancing naval innovation through electrification and digitalization. As a trusted supplier and integrator of high-quality power and propulsion solutions, ABB has established itself as a leading player in the coast guard and naval market. Recent orders in this segment include contracts with the Canadian Coast Guard, Finnish Border Guard, German, Spanish, Dutch, and Belgian navies.

ABB’s Onboard DC Grid platform is an exemplary solution for vessels operating in complex environments. Its compact and lightweight design makes it an ideal choice for specialized applications, while its best-in-class fault tolerance maximizes safety and reliability. The system’s high configurability supports a wide range of power requirements, from simple to demanding, making it suitable for various naval applications.

The partnership between ABB and Navantia has been built on previous collaborations, with the Spanish Navy having previously chosen ABB as its technology partner for two notable projects. In May 2023, ABB won a groundbreaking order with Navantia to retrofit the Spanish Navy flagship, Juan Carlos I, with an electric propulsion system featuring two Azipod units. Later that year, the company secured a second contract with the shipyard to supply a complete DC-based power and distribution system for Poseidon, a Spanish Navy vessel designed for submarine rescue and other subaquatic interventions (BAM-IS).

These projects demonstrate ABB’s expertise in designing and delivering innovative power solutions for naval vessels. The company’s commitment to advancing naval innovation is evident in its focus on electrification and digitalization. By partnering with Navantia and the Spanish Navy, ABB aims to drive progress in maritime technology, ensuring that these vessels operate efficiently, safely, and sustainably.

The coastal hydrographic vessels being built for the Spanish Navy will play a critical role in mapping and studying Spain’s coastal waters. These vessels will contribute significantly to national defense, environmental monitoring, and maritime safety. The adoption of ABB’s Onboard DC Grid platform will enable these vessels to operate with optimal energy efficiency and operational flexibility while minimizing fuel consumption and emissions.

The benefits of ABB’s technology extend beyond the Spanish Navy, offering potential applications for other coast guard and naval organizations worldwide. As a trusted supplier and integrator of high-quality power and propulsion solutions, ABB is well-positioned to capitalize on emerging trends in maritime innovation.

By embracing innovation and technological advancements, the Spanish Navy is taking an important step towards securing a sustainable future for its operations. As ABB continues to grow its presence in the coast guard and naval market, it remains committed to driving progress in maritime technology, ensuring that these vessels operate efficiently, safely, and sustainably.

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