These rigorous tests involved three underwater detonations of escalating intensity to assess the durability and resilience of the equipment. This achievement is particularly notable for Navantia, as it is the first time the shipbuilder has coordinated such complex testing, and it represents a breakthrough for Navantia Engines, which has developed the shock-qualified Navantia-MTU20V4000 diesel generator. The generator is designed and manufactured entirely by Navantia Engines and stands out as the only NATO-compatible option with these specifications.
The shock tests took place on Thornton Tomasetti Defence Ltd’s (TTDL) Shock Test Vehicle STV02 barge at the Limehillock facilities in Scotland. The testing team included representatives from Navantia, TTDL, and several equipment manufacturers: Navantia Engines, Rolls Royce (MTU), Alconza for the diesel generator, Elinsa for the main switchboard, and GEA Westfalia for the fuel purifier module.
Key stakeholders from the Spanish Ministry of Defence, the F110 Programme Office, and the General Directorate of Armament and Material (DGAM) were also present. American company Element served as a third-party observer, ensuring the tests align with both British and U.S. military standards. Additionally, a Canadian vulnerability expert, who has advised Navantia for over 25 years, provided insights on the testing procedures.
Following the successful tests, Navantia and TTDL teams are now working to disassemble the shock-qualified equipment from the barge. Preparations are underway to install the next components, the electric propulsion motor and frequency converter, which are scheduled for shock testing on the STV02 barge at the end of November.
