BMT SeaTech and SSPA Find Hydrodynamic Solutions for 65,000 Tonne Aircraft Carriers

BMT SeaTech Ltd, a subsidiary of BMT Group Ltd, has recently completed a three-year model testing programme for the Royal Navy's Future Aircraft Carrier (CVF), a new generation of aircraft carriers and a step change in force projection capability for the UK's Armed Forces. The tests were carried out at SSPA's hydrodynamic model test facilities in Sweden.

At 65,000 tonnes, the two vessels have three times the displacement of the current Invincible-class aircraft carriers. They have a more full bodied hull than other warships which are similar to that of a large, modern merchant ship. To address the hydrodynamic challenges posed by these design features, a number of characteristics more commonplace on merchant vessels have been used. These include a bulbous bow, fore and aft shoulders and a parallel middle body.

The end result is a hull form in which these features have been optimised in a harmonious design with minimum powering requirements at both cruise and maximum speeds.

The design is the result of extensive tests at SSPA by BMT SeaTech, utilising state of the art technology and an in-depth understanding of naval vessel design. BMT SeaTech was also involved in the hydrodynamic design and model testing phases of the Royal Naval Type 45 AAW Destroyer programme, and so was ideally placed for the work.

Tom Dinham-Peren, Director and Senior Hydrodynamicist at BMT SeaTech, comments: "The model testing at SSPA has given us the opportunity to develop a very novel hull design. The size and operational needs of the vessels meant a creative approach was required. Partnering with SSPA, we were able to use our know-how of both merchant ship and naval vessel design to great effect to meet those needs in good time and with impressive cost advantages.

"With our expertise and SSPA's facilities, we've been able to provide high quality model test data for a new generation of aircraft carriers - an achievement to be proud of."