Propulsion system for large ships

Abstract

A propulsion system for a large, nuclear-powered ship includes a number of steam expansion thrusters rearwardly directed from the stern portion of the ship above the water line, a number of water jet drivers rearwardly directed from the stern portion below the water line, and a number of water jet thrusters downwardly directed from the hull portion of the ship. The frictional drag effect on the ship may be reduced by providing a curtain of air bubbles adapted to flow rearwardly in contact with the hull portion.

Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.