Air Independent Propulsion (AIP) is an advanced propulsion technology that allows diesel-electric submarines to remain submerged for extended periods without surfacing or using a snorkel. While conventional submarines must periodically surface to recharge their batteries, AIP systems eliminate this necessity, delivering major advantages in stealth, silence, and operational continuity. Thanks to this capability, AIP has become a critical force multiplier in modern naval warfare, enabling submarines to operate undetected for long durations.

From a technical perspective, AIP systems generate energy without external air by using methods such as fuel cells, Stirling engines, closed-cycle diesel systems, and chemical oxygen solutions. Their shared characteristic is the ability to produce power independently of atmospheric oxygen. This enables submarines to stay underwater for weeks, significantly reduce acoustic signatures, and evade enemy sonar detection. Especially during low-speed patrols and ambush missions, AIP-equipped submarines offer a quieter and more cost-effective alternative to nuclear submarines. Today, AIP technology provides a strategic advantage in coastal defense, intelligence gathering, and maritime dominance operations.