Preliminary Analysis on the Integration of Directed Energy Systems in the Next Generation Surface Naval Vessels

The use of Directed Energy Systems (DES) provides several operational advantages in respect to conventional onboard systems, thus their integration into surface naval vessels is considered an enabler for new fleet capabilities. This paper presents a strategy for the correct integration of a DES into a surface naval vessel's electrical power system, aimed at ensuring the latter’s stability and resilience despite its pulsed power load behavior. The results are presented using as case study the integration of a laser based DES onboard a next-generation frigate, by means of a direct current sub-grid that includes a multi-functional Battery Energy Storage System (BESS). The latter is aimed at supporting all the onboard pulsed and fluctuating loads, thus being not specifically dedicated to the laser supply. By means of a mathematical model developed within “Electric TEst Facility” (ETEF - smart power grid technology demonstrator), simulations have been performed to verify if the multi-functional BESS, designed to meet other scopes and requirements, is capable of supporting the laser (in place of the conventional solution, which is installing a dedicated ESS for each critical load). The results highlight the opportunity of using the “model-based design” approach for designing naval power systems, to obtain a resilient unicum that efficiently meets the increasingly demanding needs of "high value loads", as well as optimizing the use of power electronics devices by means of a suitable centralized and optimized BESS. The results of this activity will not only have implications in terms of Naval outfitting (i.e. weight and volume optimization), but will also have significant impacts on the operational requirements that can be fulfilled.