JM Robles - Tech Consultant & Entrepreneur

Delivery of the First S-80 Submarine to the Spanish Navy

In 2007, I embarked on an engineering adventure that would change my life: the S-80 submarine project. Although the project had been approved years before, it was that year when I had the chance to dive into this engineering and design challenge.

S-80 Submarine

The construction of this submarine was a significant enterprise for Spain and for Navantia, the company that led the construction. One of the most impressive aspects of this submarine, despite being diesel-powered, is its ability to remain submerged for nearly a month without surfacing thanks to its innovative AIP system.

The AIP (Air Independent Propulsion) system is so advanced that the first two S-80 submarines being built will not include it. Although the AIP system still needs further development and testing, its incorporation into the future S-80 submarines is a huge step in naval engineering.

15 years later, the project that I started in 2007 has become a reality. The delivery of the first S-80 submarine to the Spanish Navy is a milestone in Spain’s naval history and a testament to what we are capable of achieving when we set high and challenging goals.

Combat Consoles (MFCC)

Being at Sainsel, the company responsible for the design and manufacturing of the combat consoles (MFCC), was an incredible experience. From developing drivers for Linux to creating test systems for environmental and electromagnetic (EMI) testing, each step in the process was a challenge and an opportunity to innovate and create.

Looking toward the future, I eagerly await the day when we see the rest of the S-80 submarines equipped with the innovative AIP system. Without a doubt, that will be another milestone in the history of Spanish naval engineering.