>>> Yes, I agree and most use electric drive to transfer power to the prop.
 > 
 > >     They do? Do you mean outside of submarines?
 > 
 > 
 > You don't have to have mechanical transmissions and if one engine goes 
 > out, you can run both props from one engine.  Much better control of 
 > power range too...
Dave,
 Do you have for-sure knowlege of this sort of driveline being used on 
surface ships? My information says that most are driven by 
mechanically-driven propellors, either from steam turbines or large Diesels, 
through reduction gears. Many of the Diesel-powered ships don't have reverse 
gears, simply stopping the engine and starting it again in reverse if there's 
a need for such action.
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