At the core of her Integrated Full Electric Propulsion (IFEP) system are two Rolls-Royce MT30 marine gas turbine alternators, each delivering 36 MW of power. Combined with four medium-speed diesel generators, they generate a total of 109 MW of power – enough electricity to supply a city of 150,000 homes. Almost two-thirds of this power comes from the MT30.
By enabling such high output from just two gas turbines, MT30 has delivered a step-change in naval propulsion. Its power density significantly reduces the number of turbines required, giving navies around the world more efficient, flexible, and reliable solutions for the most demanding missions and facilitating better platform design.
Designed with around 50 per cent fewer parts than comparable aero-derived gas turbines, MT30 is engineered for long service life and low maintenance costs. Crucially, it guarantees power retention over a ship’s expected 50-year life cycle – ensuring that future upgrades, from next-generation radar to energy-hungry weapons systems, will be supported.
Alongside the MT30, Rolls-Royce also provides the low-voltage electrical distribution system across the carrier – delivering power to the ship’s electrical network of over 10,000 individual consumers.
As well as a significant OEM, Rolls-Royce were members of the Power and Propulsion Sub-Alliance on the carrier programme, sharing responsibility with sub-alliance partners for the specification, design, integration, de-risking and delivery of the IFEP system.
The UK’s Queen Elizabeth-class carriers are just one example of how Rolls-Royce is shaping the future of maritime power. Japan has been one of Rolls-Royce’s most important marine customers for over four decades; the MT30 also powers the Japan Maritime Self Defense Force’s (JMSDF) warships, including the Mogami-class multirole frigates and the Aegis System Equipped Vessel, and a large number of our mtu engines are used across the JMSDF and the Japan Coast Guard.
The Carrier Strike Group’s visit to Japan is a powerful symbol of the deepening partnership between the UK and Japan. Rolls-Royce’s role in delivering advanced power solutions across land, air and sea for both nations, will help to strengthen mutual economic security, resilience and national defence interests for the decades ahead.
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