Naval Group and Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders Ltd (MDL) have signed an agreement to integrate an indigenous Air Independent Propulsion (AIP) system, developed by the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO), into the Indian Navy’s Kalvari-class submarines. These submarines, built by MDL using technology transferred from Naval Group’s Scorpene design, will undergo modifications to accommodate the system.
The integration follows a contract worth approximately INR 19.9 billion, signed on 30 December 2024 between the Indian Ministry of Defence and MDL. The work will involve a process called “Jumboisation,” which includes cutting the submarine’s hull, inserting the AIP system module, and reassembling the structure. Naval Group will provide technical oversight, proprietary components, and training for MDL personnel to carry out the integration.
“The integration of indigenous energy system into the Kalvari-class submarines is a major step forward in our shared journey toward technological and operational advancements,” said Laurent Espinasse, Executive Vice President of the Submarine division at Naval Group.
“We are pleased to extend our natural partnership with Naval Group and we shall jointly work towards successful integration of the DRDO developed propulsion system with the P75 Project Scorpene submarines,” said Cmde S B Jangamkar, Head of Submarine and Heavy Engineering division at MDL.
Naval Group India, a wholly owned subsidiary of Naval Group, has been operating in the country since 2008. Its activities include supporting the indigenisation of submarine components, providing defence engineering services, and training Indian engineers.