Kongsberg Maritime has recently secured a significant contract to provide cutting-edge propulsion and manoeuvring systems for 2 new KCR-70 Fast Attack Craft destined for the Indonesian Navy.

This development marks a notable advancement in naval technology and highlights Kongsberg's expertise in maritime solutions. The KCR-70, based on TAIS Shipyard's FACM-70 design, is a state-of-the-art 70-metre fast attack craft designed for multiple mission capabilities. These vessels are currently under construction at the Sefine Shipyard in Turkey.

With a displacement of 850 tonnes, the KCR-70 is engineered for various operational roles, including intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR) operations, anti-surface warfare, and anti-air warfare. One of the most impressive features of the KCR-70 is its exceptional speed and range. These vessels are capable of reaching speeds in excess of 40 knots, making them formidable assets in rapid response scenarios. Furthermore, with a range of 1,600 nautical miles and an endurance of seven days, the KCR-70 is well-equipped to undertake extended missions in diverse operational environments, enhancing the Indonesian Navy's maritime capabilities.

At the heart of Kongsberg Maritime's contract is the supply of an innovative propulsion system that combines efficiency with high-speed capability. The system features twin controllable pitch propeller (CPP) Promas systems, which are designed for optimal efficiency at patrol speeds. This is complemented by a single Kamewa waterjet that provides boost power for high-speed operations. The propulsion configuration is based on a Combined Diesel and Gas Turbine (CODAG) system. This setup comprises twin diesel engines for regular operations and a centrally positioned, 23-megawatt gas turbine. The gas turbine directly drives the 160-centimetre diameter waterjet, capable of discharging more than 30 cubic metres of water per second, providing the vessel with its impressive speed capabilities. Kongsberg Maritime's expertise is evident in the extensive hydrodynamic analysis conducted to integrate the hull form with two different types of propulsors.

As recently documented by FW MAG, this innovative approach allows the use of twin Promas CPP for main propulsion at speeds over 40 knots when the waterjet is engaged for boost power. The result is a system that offers enhanced manoeuvrability, speed, and efficiency, setting a new standard in naval propulsion technology. The advanced propulsion and manoeuvring technology provided by Kongsberg Maritime for the KCR-70 Fast Attack Craft represents a significant enhancement to the Indonesian Navy's operational capabilities. The combination of high speed, extended range, and versatile mission capabilities makes these vessels valuable assets for maritime security, patrol operations, and rapid response scenarios in the strategically important waters of Indonesia.

According to Kongsberg’s official literature, the successful delivery and deployment of these KCR-70 Fast Attack Craft will be closely watched by naval experts and maritime security analysts, as it could potentially influence future naval procurement decisions and shipbuilding trends in the region and beyond.

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