US Navy Certifies Rolls-Royce mtu Engines for Autonomous Ships

The United States Navy certified Rolls-Royce’s mtu Series 4000 and Series 2000 engines for use aboard autonomous vessels after extensive durability and component testing. Series 4000 approval followed two 720-hour endurance tests and covers propulsion ratings up to 4,300 kilowatts, while Series 2000 certification draws on component testing and operational experience at ratings up to 1,939 kilowatts. The approvals support Navy requirements for unmanned ships to operate for about 30 days without maintenance to their principal propulsion, fuel, or lubrication systems. Multiple cylinder configurations are available across both engine families.