The Polish shipyard PGZ Stocznia Wojenna is currently building the new rescue vessel “Ratownik”. The propulsion systems are being supplied by the German company Schottel. The vessel is scheduled for delivery to the Polish Navy in 2029.
The Polish shipyard PGZ Stocznia Wojenna is building a new special rescue unit on behalf of the Polish Navy. As has now been announced, the German supplier Schottel is supplying the propulsion systems for the ship.
The new rescue ship “Ratownik” will support the Polish Navy in rescue operations, particularly under water. It will also be used to protect critical maritime infrastructure. To this end, it will be equipped with modern technologies such as rescue systems for submarines, unmanned underwater vehicles (UUV, AUV) and equipment for greater working depths that could not previously be reached by older units.
Schottel is responsible for the ship’s propulsion and maneuverability, supplying the main propulsion system among other things. This consists of two Schottel EcoPeller SRE 560 azimuthing engines, each with an output of 2,650 kW. The rotating nacelle design allows the propellers to swivel 180 degrees, making conventional rudders superfluous. The drives offer high efficiency, compatibility with the dynamic positioning system and low noise and vibration levels.
The scope of delivery also includes two STT 3 bow thrusters (900 kW each), which enable precise control during harbor maneuvers and rescue operations. The dual system increases operational safety through redundancy. A retractable Schottel SRP 260 (880 kW) serves as an additional or emergency drive. Concealed in the hull during normal operation, it can be used as an economical auxiliary drive or to support the dynamic positioning system.
All components are designed for use in extreme conditions – including icy waters. The use of variable speed motors and controllable pitch propellers increases the ship’s operational flexibility.
The ship, worth over 1 billion zloty (approx. €230 million), will have a length of 96 meters and a width of 19 meters. The steel cut for the newbuild is scheduled to take place this year, with delivery to the Polish Navy planned for 2029.
