Introduction to Submarine Design

Postgraduate | 2026

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Area/Catalogue
ENGM 5006
Course ID icon
Course ID
206739
Level of study
Level of study
Postgraduate
Unit value icon
Unit value
6
Course level icon
Course level
5
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Inbound study abroad and exchange
Inbound study abroad and exchange
The fee you pay will depend on the number and type of courses you study.
Yes
University-wide elective icon
University-wide elective course
Yes
Single course enrollment
Single course enrolment
Yes
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Note:
Course data is interim and subject to change

Course overview

Introduction to submarine design gives the student an understanding of the basic principles of submarine design in a complex modern multi-platform system. The course gives a general introduction to the operational requirements for submarines and what architecture and technologies can deliver the capability. Areas covered are the submarine design and development process and all its phases: the different design philosophies from all countries since WWII, the platform and combat systems, pressure hull design considerations, but also how to balance a submarine design (eg weight and buoyancy relations, overall submarine performance,). How to ensure sea worthiness for submarines: fit for purpose, safe to operate and environmentally compliant. Students will deliver a submarine concept design project using the software Paramarine.

Course learning outcomes

  • Identify submarines and design philosophies worldwide
  • Explain the systems engineering approach in the context of submarines and their systems
  • Summarize the various balances to reach in order to prepare seaworthiness demonstration - feasibility
  • Apply the design process to carry out the first part of a feasibility phase on a concept submarine project
  • Compare and calculate top-level performances on submarines for resistance and energy/propulsion
  • Evaluate the fitness for purpose and safety of submarine systems
  • Develop a set of requirements for a submarine to ultimately safely design a concept

Prerequisite(s)

N/A

Corequisite(s)

N/A

Antirequisite(s)

N/A