"MUGEM'S PROPULSION SYSTEM CHANGED"
It was announced that a 2-gas turbine and 4-electric motor propulsion configuration is planned for the National Aircraft Carrier (MUGEM) in the SAHA 2026 project.
Previously, a 4-gas turbine propulsion system was planned for the ship.
This shows a radical change in MUGEM's propulsion system. Instead of the initially planned four gas turbine (COGAG) mechanical structure, the switch to a combination of two gas turbines and four electric motors indicates a move towards an IFEP (Integrated Fully Electric Propulsion) architecture.
This new structure bears a striking resemblance to the British Queen Elizabeth class. As we know, the QE class also features two Rolls-Royce MT30 gas turbines and four diesel generators providing power to four induction motors operating on two shafts. Considering MUGEM's length of approximately 285 meters and displacement exceeding 60,000 tons, it's likely that the Turkish design team referenced the British school of thought in its propulsion concept, or worked extensively on this model.
The characteristic 'double island' structure of the QE class was designed to optimize the exhaust lines of the gas turbines. Could this update to MUGEM's propulsion system result in a similar chimney layout? On the other hand, could the electric propulsion system, while providing economical cruising at low speeds, also enable the massive electrical infrastructure needed for the future EMALS project on board the ship?
Another question swirling in my mind is whether the recent defense and technology cooperation agreement between the UK and TR will yield any benefits in the MUGEM project.
2 Piç Kontrollü Pervane (CPP)
