Indian Navy's New Scorpene Submarines to Feature Indigenous Combat Systems by BEL with French Support
The Indian Navy is on the brink of a significant milestone as it prepares to integrate Made-in-India combat systems into its new Scorpene submarines. This development comes as part of an ongoing initiative to bolster the Navy's capabilities with advanced submarines while enhancing indigenous production.
In a collaborative effort with the French Naval Group, Bharat Electronics Limited (BEL) will manufacture the combat management systems for the additional Scorpene submarines. This partnership reflects India's push towards self-reliance in defense technology, aligning with the broader national strategy of "Atmanirbhar Bharat" (Self-Reliant India).
Boosting Indigenous Content
The Indian Navy is negotiating a deal to procure three additional Scorpene-class submarines from Mazagaon Dockyards Limited (MDL), in collaboration with the French Naval Group. The first batch of six submarines is expected to be delivered by the end of this year, and the subsequent three submarines will feature up to 60% indigenous content. This substantial local involvement aims to reduce dependence on foreign suppliers and foster domestic defense manufacturing capabilities.
Advanced Combat Systems from BEL
Vincent Martinot-Lagarde, Executive Vice President of the Naval Group, highlighted the significance of the indigenous combat systems. "The heart of the submarine, which is the combat system, will be an indigenous one from Bharat Electronics Limited based on French architecture," he stated. This collaboration underscores the blend of Indian manufacturing prowess with French technological expertise.
A Unique Indo-French Partnership
The project promises to enhance the Indian Navy's operational capabilities with modern, stealthy, and resilient submarines. According to Lagarde, the Naval Group is confident that the 60% indigenous content target is achievable, albeit progressively. The French official emphasized that this project would integrate the latest technologies into the Scorpene design, improving combat capabilities and endurance.
Expanding the Industrial Ecosystem
The Naval Group and MDL are working together to ensure that many critical systems will be indigenized. Existing partnerships with Indian companies like L&T, Merlin Hawk, and others will be expanded to support this initiative. Additionally, discussions are underway with new potential partners to further broaden the industrial ecosystem.
The program will not only strengthen India's defense manufacturing but also create thousands of skilled jobs, contributing to the local economy. The indigenization efforts aim to develop the necessary infrastructure and expertise to support future maintenance and upgrades of these submarines within India.
Strategic Significance
This initiative is part of India's broader strategy to develop a robust submarine fleet, comprising 21 new conventional submarines and around six nuclear-powered submarines (SSNs). The addition of the Scorpene submarines is crucial for enhancing India's maritime security, particularly against the backdrop of growing Chinese and Pakistani naval activities.
The Defence Ministry is expediting the acquisition process, aiming to complete it within the current fiscal year. The high level of indigenous content is also seen as a step towards establishing India as a regional hub for submarine construction and exports.
The Indian Navy's integration of indigenous combat systems in collaboration with the French Naval Group marks a significant step towards self-reliance in defense technology. This project not only enhances the Navy's operational capabilities but also strengthens India's defense manufacturing sector, contributing to the broader vision of Atmanirbhar Bharat.
This blend of indigenous production with advanced French architecture promises a formidable addition to the Indian Navy's fleet, ensuring enhanced maritime security and operational readiness.