STREAMLINE is to demonstrate radically new propulsion concepts delivering an increase in efficiency of at least 15% over current state-of-the-art. The concepts will be designed for maximisation of energy conversion combined with low levels of cavitation, noise and vibration. The research will look at novel applications of large area propulsion, a biomechanical system and distributed thrust (via multiple propulsors).

STREAMLINE will also investigate methods to fully optimise current state-of-the-art systems including conventional screw propeller systems, pods and waterjets. The key here is exploitation of new Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) methods to pursue improvements without dramatic vessel configuration changes.

Furthermore, STREAMLINE is to develop advanced CFD tools and methods to optimise the hydrodynamic performance of the new propulsion concepts, particularly by analysis of integrated hull and propulsor. STREAMLINE will characterise the operational, economic and classification aspects of each of the new propulsion concepts.