The objective of these trials was to test the correct performing of systems, equipments and propulsion
From 24 May to 2 June in the waters off Ferrol, Navantia carried out the sea trials of the LHD class Juan Carlos I (L-61) that the company is building for the Spanish Navy. The ship’s seakeeping has been excellent, obtaining a sustained speed more than a knot above that initially foreseen. The technicians taking part in the trials also underlined the ship’s docile seakeeping and its great capacity for short distance turning thanks to its podded propulsion system.
The trials team was made up of 340 persons, and Navantia affirms that the trials have fully validated the new propulsion system fitted on board this ship, which is CODLAG (COmbined Diesel-eLectric and Gas turbine). In this combined propulsion system, two MAN engines and a General Electric gas turbine produce the electrical power that feeds the propulsion systems.
The LHD Juan Carlos I has been designed to carry out amphibious missions, force deployment, humanitarian assistance and to act as an auxiliary aircraft carrier. She also has a large hospital capacity, which in addition to her cargo capacity make her ideal for deployment in disaster areas.
With a length overall of 230.82 metres (flight deck 202.3 m.), 32 m. beam and full load displacement of more than 27,500 tonnes, this will be the biggest ship ever made available to the Spanish Navy.
She will also be the first of such a size with podded electrical propulsion. Highly automated, her crew will consist of just 247 persons.
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