UK Proposes Electric Propulsion for India’s Upcoming Amphibious Warships

In a significant move to enhance naval capabilities, the United Kingdom and India have signed a Statement of Intent to jointly design and develop Integrated Full Electric Propulsion (IFEP) systems for India's forthcoming Landing Platform Dock (LPD) fleet. This collaboration underscores the deepening defense ties between the two nations and aims to bolster India's maritime strength.

India's Ambitious LPD Program

The Indian Ministry of Defence has outlined plans to acquire a fleet of four advanced LPDs. These vessels are envisioned to play a pivotal role in amphibious warfare, disaster relief, and humanitarian assistance. According to the Request for Information (RFI) issued in August 2021, the first LPD is expected to be delivered within 60 months of contract signing, with each subsequent vessel following at 12-month intervals.

Key specifications for these LPDs include:

• Dimensions: Approximately 200 meters in length.
• Crew Capacity: Accommodation for 540 sailors.
• Troop Transport: Capability to carry about 900 troops.
• Range: A sailing range of 10,000 nautical miles at an economical speed.
• Speed: Cruising speed between 14 to 16 knots.
• Armament: Equipped with 32 Vertical Launch – Short Range Surface to Air Missiles and 16 anti-ship missiles.
• Aviation Facilities: A through-deck design to support at least two heavy-lift helicopters, 12 special operations helicopters, and two naval ship-borne drones. The design also allows for simultaneous operations of at least four special operations helicopters.

These vessels are designed to transport and land combined arms forces ashore, sustain their operations on land, and serve as command centers for various task forces. Additionally, they will act as mother ships for unmanned surface vessels and provide medical facilities for treating battle casualties.

Advancements in Electric Propulsion

Electric propulsion systems offer numerous advantages over traditional diesel propulsion. They produce lower emissions, reduce noise and vibration levels, and provide improved reliability with longer intervals between maintenance. This results in greater operational availability and utility. A quieter warship is particularly advantageous in naval operations, enhancing stealth capabilities.

The UK's experience with electric propulsion spans several classes of vessels, from the Type 23 frigates to the Queen Elizabeth-class aircraft carriers. This extensive background will be invaluable in the collaborative development of IFEP systems tailored for India's LPDs.

Collaborative Efforts and Future Prospects

A joint working group comprising experts from both nations is spearheading the IFEP project. This team will draw lessons from the UK's progression in naval propulsion systems to inform the design and development process. The collaboration also involves industry partners such as GE Vernova and Bharat Heavy Electricals Limited (BHEL), who are working together to establish India's first maritime Land-Based Testing Facility. This facility aims to have the LPDs operational by 2030.

The integration of advanced electric propulsion systems into India's next-generation amphibious warships represents a significant leap in maritime technology. This partnership not only strengthens the defense relationship between the UK and India but also positions India at the forefront of modern naval warfare capabilities.