A new submarine design that actually looks more like a futuristic spaceship than an underwater vessel has been unveiled in the United Arab Emirates. The startup HIghland Systems with its Kronos submarine has extremely changed the appearance of submarines, both inside and out. Submarines have been greatly revamped over time, designed for secret operations. This basic design and shape remain more or less standard. With newer technologies such as electric motors and unmanned vehicles taking center stage, there is an opportunity to change submarines to be more fuel efficient and increase their stealth capabilities.
The submarine can accommodate ten passengers and one crew member, inspired by the Manta-ray design. The total hull design allows high speeds, while consuming less fuel.
It is dual powered with a diesel generator and an electric motor that, combined, can deliver up to 54 hours of operation. The submarine can be tasked with commercial operations or built specifically for rescue or combat.
The vehicle measures just under 30 feet (9,025 mm) long, 24 feet (7,432 mm) wide, and 6.85 feet (2,089 mm) tall. It weighs only 22,000 pounds (10,000 kilos) and has a load capacity of 6,600 pounds (3,000 kg) in the water. Interestingly, the submarine’s wings can be folded for easy transportation over land.
The sub’s working depth is 328 feet (100 meters), while its maximum critical depth is 820 feet (250 m). The vehicle can reach a top speed of just under 80 km/h while in the water and 50 km/h when submerged. The submarine’s 1,200-hp electric motor can also be used to propel it. In its battery-only mode, the submarine can remain operational for 36 hours, the same time it can maintain its air supply. After this, the battery must be charged for a period of 1.5 hours, which is also the amount of time needed to refuel in the air. Submarine interiors are air-conditioned and utilize an adaptive lighting system. When necessary, the life support system can be activated automatically.
The combat operations submarine can be equipped with a total of 6 mini torpedoes, three on each side of the crew. These torpedoes could shoot down enemy ships or port bases if necessary. Published by the Emirates Herald, a news and information agency.