India, UK review progress on warship engine
India and the UK today reviewed progress on developing a next-generation engine for warships, known as the “electric propulsion” system. This new technology is quieter and more efficient compared to traditional diesel or gas-powered engines.
Defence Minister Rajnath Singh held a telephonic conversation with his UK counterpart John Healey on Thursday. According to the Ministry of Defence, “They reviewed the excellent progress made between the two countries in niche defence technology areas such as electric propulsion and jet engines.”
In November 2022, the two nations signed a ‘Statement of Intent on Electric Propulsion’, establishing a framework for collaboration in co-designing, co-creating and co-producing electric propulsion systems for future naval ships. With the UK increasing its focus on the Indo-Pacific, both sides are exploring opportunities for joint projects and enhanced maritime cooperation in 2025.
The Indian Navy’s planned Landing Platform Docks (LPDs), to be constructed at Indian shipyards, are expected to incorporate full electric propulsion systems. Currently, India operates one LPD, INS Jalashwa, acquired from the US nearly two decades ago. Plans are underway to build four additional LPDs capable of transporting and landing combined arms forces, including tanks, ashore and sustaining operations over extended periods.
An LPD is designed to embark and support troops at sea for prolonged durations, making it a critical asset for amphibious operations.
The UK, a global leader in maritime electric propulsion with over 20 years of expertise, has collaborated with India on this front. During DefExpo 2020 in Gandhinagar, defence industry organisations from both countries announced the creation of a Defence Industry Joint Working Group, supported by the UK Government, focusing on technologies such as electric propulsion.
