Larsen & Toubro’s 651 kW Waterjet Propulsion System has completed preliminary sea trials aboard the Indian Navy’s Fast Interceptor Craft. The propulsion system was developed under the Defence Research and Development Organisation’s (DRDO) Technology Development Fund (TDF) scheme.
The system, developed by Larsen & Toubro’s Precision Engineering Systems business unit, incorporates over 70 percent indigenous content. The trials mark a step in evaluating the system’s operational capabilities at sea. The system was developed at L&T’s AM Naik Heavy Engineering Complex in Surat and features in-built steering and braking functions. It is designed for high-speed naval operations and is capable of supporting speeds above 45 knots (85 kmph).
The DRDO stated, “A key milestone under DRDO’s TDF scheme. The 651 kW Waterjet Propulsion System, designed & developed indigenously by Larsen & Toubro (Precision Engineering Systems IC) >70% IC content, successfully completed preliminary sea trials aboard Indian Navy’s Fast Interceptor Craft.”
The propulsion system is intended for use in Fast Interceptor Crafts engaged in coastal defence, surveillance, and anti-smuggling operations. It is suited for shallow-water environments and is designed to improve manoeuvrability and thrust control through pump-driven water acceleration. L&T is also developing waterjet propulsion systems with power capacities up to 3,500 kW.
L&T’s shipyards in Kattupalli and Hazira have previously delivered 54 Fast Interceptor Boats and seven Offshore Patrol Vessels to the Indian Navy and Coast Guard. The company’s marine engineering portfolio includes steering gear, stabilizers, torpedo launchers, and now waterjet propulsion systems.
The 651 kW system’s indigenous development addresses the challenge of dependence on imported marine propulsion systems. Its advancement is considered a step toward reducing reliance on suppliers such as Ukraine’s Zorya or France’s Pielstick. The system’s >70% indigenous content may also support supply chain collaboration with domestic manufacturers and small enterprises, potentially enabling broader application across naval platforms and future patrol vessels.