Small modular reactors are considered, but the preferred sketch uses gas and diesel generation feeding an integrated electric system similar in principle to the Queen Elizabeth-class carriers. As many as four gas turbines and four large diesel generators, paired and distributed through the hull, could give propulsion, sensors, jammers, weapons, and hotel loads several independent sources. Distributed azimuthing propulsion pods and auxiliary thrusters would avoid dependence on one shaft arrangement and improve harbor maneuverability. A nonnuclear plant also preserves access to countries and ports that restrict nuclear-powered ships, which matters for the diplomatic mission. The proposal makes electrical generation and propulsion redundancy part of combat survivability rather than treating machinery solely as a peacetime efficiency choice.
Chapter · 1:11:14-1:19:26
Gas turbines, electric power, and four-way redundancy
The proposed machinery borrows from large modern carriers: multiple gas-turbine and diesel generators provide propulsion, combat-system power, and graceful degradation.