At Euronaval 2014, DCNS is unveiling the SMX-Océan conventionally powered attack submarine. The new vessel draws extensively on the design of a state-of-the-art nuclear-powered submarine, with a number of key innovations that give this diesel-electric adaptation truly outstanding performance.
Exceptional performance
This innovative concept ship promises submerged endurance and deployment capabilities that are unprecedented for a conventional-propulsion submarine. With up to three months’ endurance, an SMX-Océan could cross the Atlantic six times without surfacing. Its transit speed is up to 14 knots.
To achieve this level of performance, DCNS teams have developed and combined a number of innovations including a high-performance air-independent propulsion (AIP) system using second-generation fuel cells for submerged endurance of up to three weeks.
The SMX-Océan features the same combat system, provisions for special forces’ missions, masts and general layout as the Barracuda SSN.
4D firepower: effective against underwater, surface, land and air threats
With a total of 34 weapons including torpedoes, mines, anti-ship missiles, cruise missiles and anti-air missiles, the SMX-Océan’s firepower will be unprecedented for an SSK.
The SMX-Océan concept ship design also includes vertical launchers, another major innovation in SSK design, to provide a salvo capability for cruise missile strikes on land targets.
A reconfigurable multi-role submarine
The SMX-Ocean offers more multi-role capabilities than any other submarine of its type. It can operate alone or as part of a carrier group or other naval deployment, and will be the only conventionally powered submarine with the ability to deploy special forces, combat swimmers, unmanned underwater vehicles (UUVs) and even unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs).
Carrier group escort
Equipped with tactical datalinks meeting international standards, the SMX-Ocean is ideal for carrier group escort roles in support of coalition operations in any theatre of operations.
Technical data
- Length: 100 m
- Height: 15.5 m
- Beam: 8.8 m
- Surface displacement: 4,750 t
- Maximum diving depth: 350 m
- Maximum speed, submerged: 20 kts
DCNS designs and builds submarines and surface combatants, develops associated systems and infrastructure, and offers a full range of services to naval bases and shipyards. The Group generates annual revenues of €3.4 billion and employs 13,600 people (2013 data)
