Type 45 Destroyer Power Improvement Project (PIP)
UK (HMNB Portsmouth, various shipyards) · 2017–2028 · £160 million (design and manufacture contract)
The judgement call
Account-gated at launchThe necessity of the PIP arose from significant reliability problems with the original propulsion system, highlighting the importance of robust system design and testing. - The decision to retrofit new diesel generators rather than a complete propulsion system overhaul was a pragmatic solution to address critical failures. - The phased nature of the project allows for continuous naval operations, but extends the overall timeline for fleet-wide upgrades.
Key engineering challenges
Rectifying fundamental design flaws in the original propulsion system (WR-21 gas turbines and diesel generators) that led to power reliability issues. - Integrating new, more robust diesel generators into existing ship structures. - Managing the upgrade process across the entire fleet while ensuring continuous operational availability.
Project facts
- Client / owner
- Royal Navy / UK Ministry of Defence
- Lead contractor
- BAE Systems (involved in original build and PIP), potentially other contractors for specific components.
- Lead designers
- —
- Project type
- upgrade
- Scale
- 6 ships in the class
- Disciplines
- Marine engineering; electrical engineering; power systems; systems integration
- Standards & frameworks
- —
Sources: Navy Lookout: In focus: The Power Improvement Project for the Royal Navy's Type 45 destroyers (https://www.navylookout.com/in-focus-the-power-improvement-project-for-the-royal-navys-type-45-destroyers/) - Mane.co.uk: Type 45 PiP Project: A Comprehensive Guide to the Royal Navy's Power Improvement Programme (https://www.mane.co.uk/resources/blog/type-45-pip-project--a-comprehensive-guide-to-the-royal-navy-s-power-improvement-programme/) - Wikipedia: Type 45 destroyer (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Type_45_destroyer)