Air-independent propulsion (AIP)

About AIP:

• Air-independent propulsion (AIP) is any marine propulsion technology that allows a non-nuclear submarine to operate without access to atmospheric oxygen (by surfacing or using a snorkel).
• AIP can augment or replace the diesel-electric propulsion system of non-nuclear vessels.

Importance of AIP:

• Modern non-nuclear submarines are potentially stealthier than nuclear submarines; a nuclear ship's reactor must constantly pump coolant, generating some amount of detectable noise.
• Non-nuclear submarines running on battery power or AIP, on the other hand, can be virtually silent.
• Air Independent Propulsion (AIP) has a force multiplier effect on lethality of a diesel electric submarine as it enhances the submerged endurance of the boat, several folds.

Prelims Question

Air independent propulsion is a technology associated with:
(a)Submarines
(b)Propeller air crafts
(c)Jet aircrafts
(d)Diesel railway locomotives

Answer to the Prelims Question