Some Aspects of Submarine Design. Part 2. Shape of a Submarine 2026

Abstract : A shape for a next generation submarine has been drawn based on a survey of available knowledge. The reasons for each detailed portion of the shape are explained. The aim of the design is to produce a submarine with minimum practical resistance and with minimum water flow noise especially over the forward passive sonar while still carrying out all its normal functions. It is assumed the role of the submarine would be little different from the current vessel but may be powered differently and carry different equipment. The diameter of the hull has been increased while the length has been decreased compared to the present vessel. It is estimated the comparative resistance will be reduced by ten percent. The larger diameter will allow an extra deck over a portion of the length of the vessel giving greater flexibility to internal arrangements. All openings in the first five meters of the shape have been moved elsewhere including the torpedo tubes and interceptor array, to give the smoothest possible flow over the forward passive sensors. The nose shape is derived from a NACA forebody with a 14.2 percent thickness-length ratio and shows a favorable value of the minimum pressure over its length. The question of achieving natural laminar flow over this short length is discussed and found to be possible but is unproven.