Indonesia's Scorpène Program and Plans for Four Additional Submarines

Indonesia's submarine project with PT PAL and Naval Group advances, integrating advanced technologies for enhanced naval capabilities and potential collaborations with India.

Indonesia is advancing its naval capabilities with a significant investment in submarine technology. The state-owned shipbuilder PT PAL Indonesia, located in Surabaya, East Java, has begun preparations for constructing the Scorpène Evolved submarines. This $2.16 billion project, supported by the French company Naval Group, is expected to deliver submarines to the Indonesian Navy (TNI AL) within eight years.

Facility Upgrades and Training

To facilitate this project, PT PAL is upgrading its submarine production facilities. This includes building a new torpedo and electronic workshop and an office dedicated to its submarine division. Furthermore, PT PAL has contracted Norway-based Syncrolift AS to provide a $15 million ship lift and transfer system, which will be 100 meters long and capable of lifting 6,000 tonnes. This system will support both the construction and maintenance of submarines.

Indonesian engineers involved in the Scorpène Evolved project will receive training, certification, and supervision from the Naval Group and other relevant entities, ensuring they are well-prepared for the task ahead.

Advanced Technologies and Capabilities

During the Future Submarine International Seminar & Showcase held in Jakarta, Naval Group highlighted the integration of Unmanned Underwater Vehicles (UUVs) with the Scorpène Evolved. These UUVs can perform various missions, including special forces support and intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR). MBDA presented its SM39 B2 Mod 2 Exocet missile, which can be launched from the Scorpène’s torpedo tubes, indicating potential future capabilities for Indonesia’s submarine fleet.

Admiral Muhammad Ali, Chief of Staff of the Indonesian Navy, emphasized the importance of lithium-ion batteries (LIBs) in the new submarines. These batteries will allow the submarines to remain submerged for extended periods, enhancing their stealth capabilities. Admiral Ali also outlined plans to build more submarine bases and procure additional submarines, aiming for a fleet of at least 12 full-size submarines to patrol Indonesia’s vast maritime territory.

Financing and Future Acquisitions

The Indonesian Ministry of Finance is currently arranging the loan agreement to finance the submarine project. Meanwhile, the Indonesian Ministry of Defence has proposed acquiring four more submarines, with two expected between 2025 and 2029 and another two between 2035 and 2039. France, Germany, Italy, and Turkey are the main contenders for supplying these additional submarines.

Potential Indian Collaboration

Indian companies, particularly Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders Limited, have shown interest in joining PT PAL’s Scorpène project. India has experience with local production of Scorpène-class submarines, which could be beneficial for the Indonesian project. This collaboration could also help India maintain its expertise in submarine construction and gain experience with the latest Scorpène variant.

Conclusion

Indonesia’s partnership with Naval Group and the upgrades at PT PAL’s facilities signify a significant step in enhancing the country’s naval capabilities. The integration of advanced technologies and potential collaborations with other countries underscore Indonesia’s commitment to modernizing its submarine fleet and securing its maritime interests.