Tech Feature
Schottel RudderPropeller Turns 75
Schottel Mark’s 75th Anniversary of the RudderPropeller
First boat with a rudder propeller, see milestone 1950.
Image courtesy SchottelSchottel founder Josef Becker helped to revolutionize marine propulsion tech with his invention of the fully steerable rudder propeller, an innovation that continues to shape the maritime industry today, 75 years after the first unit was installed on a commercial vessel. Since its introduction in 1950, more than 17,000 SCHOTTEL RudderPropellers have been sold, powering vessels globally.
With the invention of the SCHOTTEL RudderPropeller (SRP) in 1950, ships could – for the first time – use the full power of their propulsion system for manoeuvering. This Z-drive eliminated the need for a separate rudder blade and featured a propeller that could be steered endlessly through 360 degrees. This technical breakthrough had a profound impact on shipbuilding and marine operations.
"Throughout its 75-year history, the SRP has played a pivotal role in pioneering new maritime markets. From early harbour tugboats to offshore energy exploration, to today’s leading solution for fully electric tugs – this versatile propulsion system has consistently been the preferred choice in response to emerging demands,” says Stefan Kaul, CEO, Schottel.
Today, the SRP is available in numerous variants, covering a wide range of power sources, installation options, and operational requirements. Its exceptional versatility is evident from the fact that it is used in more than 120 different vessel types for a variety of applications.
75 Years of SRP: Historical Milestones
Late 1940s
SCHOTTEL founder Josef Becker explores propulsion and steering systems, testing his early designs in a bathtub at home.
1950
First rudder propeller installed in company’s boat, Magdalena.
1952
SRPs help during the Netherlands flood disaster; SCHOTTEL gains international recognition.
Image courtesy Schottel
1955
Patent granted for the ‘steerable propeller drive’ – a turning point for SCHOTTEL.
1963
First dynamic positioning system with two SRPs launched on French vessel Trebel.
Image courtesy Schottel
1967
First harbour tug with rudder propellers developed in Hamburg.
Image courtesy Schottel
1980s
SRPs power new ASD tugs, increasing SCHOTTEL's global market presence.
1986
World's most powerful SRPs installed in the Micoperi 7000 crane vessel.
Image courtesy Schottel
1998/1999
SRP 1515 released; becomes top-selling azimuth propulsion system.
Image courtesy Schottel
2005
Over 600 tugs equipped – SCHOTTEL becomes market leader in tug propulsion.
2016
HTG high-performance gearbox boosts torque by 15% – co-developed with TU Dresden.
2017
“ProAnode” design launched for better corrosion protection and hydrodynamics.
Image courtesy Schottel
2019
SYDRIVE hybrid solution unveiled – enabling up to 120 tons of bollard pull.
2023
SRP-D launched – critical for wind farm vessels with improved positioning accuracy.
2025
SRPs power over 50% of all fully electric tugs worldwide. Major presence in hybrid market.
Image courtesy HaiSea
