Advanced Schottel propulsion system for Polish Navy’s rescue ship “Ratownik”

The new Polish Navy rescue vessel Ratownik, under construction at PGZ Naval Shipyard (PGZ Stocznia Wojenna), will be equipped with a state-of-the-art propulsion system supplied by Schottel, a renowned German manufacturer with more than a century of experience in marine engineering. The system will ensure maximum maneuverability and operational reliability in the most demanding sea conditions.

Kamil Kusier executive editor 18.10.2025, 15:13 Reading time: 1 min

Two men in hard hats inspect large blue and yellow ship propulsion units in a factory hall — fot. PGZ Stocznia Wojenna

In brief

The rescue ship Ratownik, being built by PGZ Stocznia Wojenna for the Polish Navy, will receive a propulsion system from Schottel. The main propulsion consists of two Schottel EcoPeller SRE 560 azimuth thrusters of 2,650 kilowatts each, supplemented by two Schottel STT 3 bow thrusters of 900 kilowatts each and a retractable Schottel SRP 260 thruster of 880 kilowatts. The vessel, nearly 100 metres long and with a displacement of around 6,500 tonnes, is to support underwater operations, maritime rescue and protection of critical infrastructure in the Baltic. Marcin Ryngwelski, president of PGZ Stocznia Wojenna, assures of the team's readiness to deliver the investment.

Main propulsion – azimuth thrusters Schottel EcoPeller SRE 560

The vessel’s main propulsion will consist of two Schottel EcoPeller SRE 560 azimuth thrusters, each rated at 2,650 kW. Their 180-degree rotatable gondolas eliminate the need for traditional rudders, providing excellent agility, high efficiency, and reduced noise and vibration levels.
The system is fully integrated with the ship’s dynamic positioning (DP) capability, enabling precise station-keeping during rescue or diving operations.

Bow and retractable thrusters – precision and redundancy

Two Schottel STT 3 bow thrusters (900 kW each) will enhance maneuvering in port and during complex offshore missions. A retractable Schottel SRP 260 unit (880 kW) will serve as an auxiliary or emergency propulsion system, remaining hidden within the hull during normal sailing and deployable when needed for DP support or economical cruising.

Ready for harsh northern conditions

All propulsion components are designed for operation in challenging maritime environments, including icy waters. Variable-speed drives and controllable-pitch propellers will provide high flexibility and energy efficiency.

- On behalf of the entire team, I want to reaffirm our commitment to the Polish Navy. We are fully prepared to deliver a vessel combining cutting-edge technology with decades of Polish shipbuilding experience, said Marcin Ryngwelski, President of PGZ Naval Shipyard.

The Ratownik program represents a major step in the modernization of the Polish Navy, enhancing national maritime safety and the ability to conduct deep-sea rescue and subsea operations in the Baltic region.

Source: Gazeta Morska · Compiled by: Kamil Kusier