Submarine Systems

Since 1915, MacTaggart Scott equipment has been featured on all classes of Royal Navy submarines, with a strong presence in the global marketplace

Submarine Systems

Mast raising equipment

MacTaggart Scott has delivered mast systems for submarines across the globe. The flexible modular design supports  a wide range of payloads and roles – optronics, radar, communications, or snort induction and diesel exhaust

Since the first Modular Mast went to sea in the late 1990s, continuous innovation has defined its evolution — and foundation for the current-generation mast systems.

Every Mast is engineered for stealth, performance, and reliability — proven over decades of operational deployment.

  • ^Rapid installation and removal Simple boat interfaces
  • ^Low radar signature
  • ^Lightweight construction
  • ^Proven at sea
The MacTaggart Scott Mast provides powered extension and retraction in both directions, ensuring positive control at all times.

Submarine Systems

Hydraulic Power Units

Providing hydraulic fluid to submarine systems (oil or water/glycol)

Isolated to minimise the transmission of noise and vibration

Each Hydraulic Power Unit comprises:

  • ^Hydraulic pump(s)
  • ^Electric drive motors
  • ^Raft structure
  • ^Hydraulic reservoir
  • ^Coolers
  • ^Control console

Submarine Systems

Control surface actuators

Hydroplane & Rudder Actuator Systems

MacTaggart Scott designs and delivers high-reliability control surface actuators and systems. The actuators provide precise control, smooth operation, and exceptional durability in the most demanding submarine environments.

Retractable Bowplane Systems

Our complete Retractable Bowplane Systems enables sensitive Forward Hydroplanes to be retracted into the hull whilst undergoing critical mooring and berthing evolutions.

Complete System Expertise

MacTaggart Scott can supply all components and sub-assemblies for ship builders to deliver control surface actuation and control capability including main, extend and retract actuator cylinders, rails, stocks and all critical linkages.

    Submarine Systems

    Emergency propulsion systems

    MacTaggart Scott’s Auxiliary Propulsion System provides submarines with an independent means of propulsion and manoeuvring – to gain control when it matters most.

    Operating separately from the main propeller shaft, the Auxiliary Propulsion System deploys an independent propulsor that delivers dependable thrust and precise control. Ideal for emergency use or fine manoeuvring.

    • ^Power options: Hydraulic or Electric
    • ^Deployment methods: Linear (vertical) or Hinged extension
    • ^Configuration: Custom-engineered to suit the vessels requirements

    Submarine Systems

    Main ballast tank vent valves

    Vent valves are high integrity air valves fitted at the top of ballast tanks to control the release of buoyancy air in the tank.

    The valve assembly comprises:

    • ^Valve disc
    • ^Bell-shaped frame
    • ^Spring-loaded drag link
    • ^Bell-crank lever
    • ^Hydraulic actuator
    • ^Guide bracket

    Submarine Systems

    Anchor windlass

    • ^Powerful hydraulic or electric drive options
    • ^Integrated brake and clutch for absolute control
    • ^All controls and panels safely housed inside the pressure hull
    • ^Designed for reliability in the harshest marine conditions
    • ^Tailored solutions to meet specific class and customer requirements

    Submarine Systems

    Retractable capstan

    Capstans designed for clean decks and confident control

    • ^Geared hydraulic or electric drive for powerful, controlled operation
    • ^Integral brake
    • ^Retracts flush with the casing for a clean, unobstructed deck
    • ^Local operation
    • ^Eliminates hull penetrations for improved safety and durability
    • ^Significant advantages over traditional through-hull designs

    Submarine Systems

    High torque, low speed hydraulic motors

    For decades, MacTaggart Scott has delivered low-noise, high-reliability hydraulic drive solutions for the naval market — designed for operation both inside and outside the pressure hull.

    Our high torque, low speed motors perform flawlessly under high external pressure and in corrosive seawater environments outside the pressure hull.

    Through precise tuning of the motor and optimised internal fluid flow geometry, we minimise structure borne noise and vibration — delivering smooth, quiet operation.

    The combination of specialist submarine system design and acoustic stealth knowledge makes MacTaggart Scott a world leader in submarine hydraulic motor technology.

    Submarine Systems

    Hydraulic pumps

    Proven Hydraulic Power and Control Beneath the Surface

    The MacTaggart Scott Quiet Radial Piston Pump is engineered for continuous, low-noise performance with smooth and efficient flow.

    Proven to meet modern submarine standards, the QRP offers

    • ^Low noise characteristics and long operational life
    • ^Modular design — a standard pumping module forms the core of every QRP

    Submarine Systems

    Towed Array Handling System

    MacTaggart Scott specialises in the handling of active and passive towed arrays and cable communication systems.

    Guidance on material selection and traction control is provided to ensure safe deployment and recovery of even the most delicate cables and structures.

    MacTaggart Scott systems are tailored to fit the unique geometry of each platform, accommodating both simple cable reeling and complex arrays with variable diameters and handling requirements.

    Computer-controlled spooling delivers smooth, precise cable handling for variable diameters and cross-sections.
    Integrated consoles provide:

    • ^CCTV monitoring
    • ^Real-time feedback on length, speed, and load
    • ^Automation and operator control