Submarine: Hydrodynamics

Hydrodynamics directly impacts a submarine’s "stealth" by affecting its acoustic signature.

Resistance determines the power required for a submarine to move and impacts its maximum speed and acoustic signature. Friction between water and the hull surface. Submarine Hydrodynamics

Its length relative to diameter (L/D ratio) is optimized to minimize overall resistance. Submarine Hydrodynamics

Operating close to the surface introduces complex forces from surface waves that affect depth control and safety. Submarine Hydrodynamics

Engineers divide the hull into three distinct sections to optimize flow:

Avoiding turbulent "breaks" in water flow is essential to staying quiet.