Rolls-Royce receives big waterjet order

The contract will involve the supply of 71S3np water jets (three per vessel), and associated equipment including a joystick control system which will enhance the manoeuvring capabilities of the vessels. The patrol vessels are designed for speeds of 33 knots, operating in Indian coastal waters and around island territories. Their roles will include coastal patrolling, anti-smuggling missions, fisheries protection, and search and rescue duties.

The company says that its Kamewa S3 range of waterjets is designed to offer higher speeds, improved acceleration, and increased efficiency, enabling operation in shallow waters. They are claimed to give higher speeds and better manoeuvrability than conventional propellers. 86 Rolls-Royce supplied waterjets are already in service with the Indian Coast Guard, and the company has provided other equipment such as CP propellers and stabilising fins for other vessels in the fleet. Rolls-Royce has also supplied a design and equipment package for three UT 517 design pollution control vessels, the first of which, Samudra Prahari, entered service in 2010. Cochin Shipyard has delivered more than 20 UT design vessels to date.