News

SCHOTTEL has been selected to supply a comprehensive propulsion package for SpaceShip, a new Roll-on/Roll-off (RoRo) cargo vessel commissioned by United Launch Alliance (ULA). Currently under construction at Bollinger Shipyards in Amelia, Louisiana, the vessel is expected to be completed in 2026. Once operational, SpaceShip will transport Vulcan rockets from ULA’s facility in Decatur, Alabama, to launch sites at Cape Canaveral Space Force Station in Florida and Vandenberg Space Force Base in California.

The vessel will be equipped with a full propulsion solution that includes three SCHOTTEL RudderPropellers (SRP 460 LE) and two SCHOTTEL TransverseThrusters (STT 1), ensuring maximum maneuverability and operational reliability during the transport of critical space assets. A custom electric system, engineered and supplied by elkon—a member of the SCHOTTEL Group—will complement the propulsion system.

High-Performance Electric Propulsion

The main propulsion will feature three SRP 460 units in the L-Drive variant, each delivering 2,100 kW of power with a 2.6-meter propeller. These 360-degree steerable thrusters offer superior thrust and precise navigation, while their compact design allows installation in tight spaces. The embedded electric motor reduces mechanical loss, improves efficiency, and lowers maintenance costs.

To further improve handling, especially during docking and tight operations, the vessel will also include two STT 1 transverse thrusters, each providing 373 kW of power with a 1.3-meter propeller. This ensures outstanding maneuverability, essential for the safe transport of high-value cargo.

For enhanced control, SCHOTTEL will also supply the MasterStick joystick system, enabling the operation of all five propulsion units through one single lever—ensuring intuitive and precise maneuvering.

Advanced Electrical Systems by elkon

The vessel’s propulsion will be supported by a state-of-the-art electrical infrastructure from elkon. This includes Active Front End (AFE) Drive technology, which boosts propulsion efficiency, lowers fuel consumption, and improves vessel performance.

The package also includes main switchboards, a Power Management System (PMS) to optimize energy distribution, and an Alarm Control and Monitoring System (ACMS) for real-time diagnostics and preventive maintenance. Additional components such as Motor Control Centers (MCC), Power Distribution Panels, and Bridge and Engine Control Consoles ensure compliance with marine electrical standards and enhance reliability.

Fully Integrated System Design

Thanks to the close collaboration between SCHOTTEL and elkon, SpaceShip will benefit from a perfectly aligned propulsion and electrical system. Their combined expertise enables optimized designs, cost-effective solutions, and seamless support through a single point of contact. Customers will also gain access to SCHOTTEL’s global network of service stations and technicians.

Supporting the Future of Space Launch

SpaceShip is designed to support the transport of ULA’s new Vulcan rocket, a heavy-lift launch vehicle developed to replace the Delta IV and Atlas V families. First launched in January 2024, Vulcan can carry a wide range of satellite payloads into orbit and can be fitted with up to six solid-fuel boosters to increase capacity based on mission needs.

By combining cutting-edge propulsion with intelligent electrical systems, SCHOTTEL and elkon are helping ULA usher in the next generation of space logistics, ensuring safe, efficient, and sustainable transport of critical launch components across the U.S. coastline.

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