Larsen & Toubro (L&T) and the Defense Research and Development Organization (DRDO) have entered into a contract to jointly develop two Air Independent Propulsion (AIP) system modules for the Kalvari Class of Submarines in service with the Indian Navy. The contract signing took place on Thursday and involved the exchange of documents between Arun T Ramchandani, Executive Vice President and Head of L&T Defense, and PT Rojatkar, Director of the Naval Materials Research Laboratory (NMRL). The event was attended by J D Patil, a member of the Executive Committee of Management and Advisor (Defense & Smart Technologies) to the CEO and MD of Larsen & Toubro Limited, along with senior officials from NMRL and L&T.
According to the conglomerate’s statement, these modules serve as the fundamental components of the fuel cell-based AIP System, which has been indigenously developed by the Naval Materials Research Laboratory (NMRL) of DRDO in collaboration with L&T as the prime industry partner. This collaboration between the two entities has been ongoing for more than a decade. The Energy Modules (EMs) incorporated in the AIP System consist of fuel cells that generate the necessary power, along with an on-board hydrogen generation capability.
Air Independent Propulsion (AIP) systems are designed to enhance the operational capabilities of submarines by allowing them to remain submerged for longer periods, thereby reducing their dependence on surface access for atmospheric oxygen. These systems employ various technologies to generate power for the submarine’s propulsion and other electrical requirements while staying submerged. The AIP system being developed by NMRL and L&T is based on fuel cell technology, which offers numerous advantages such as high energy density, quiet operation, and reduced emissions.
The collaboration between L&T and DRDO for the development of AIP system modules showcases the growing indigenous defense manufacturing capabilities in India. It highlights the country’s efforts to strengthen its naval defense sector and reduce its reliance on foreign suppliers for critical defense technologies. The partnership between L&T, a leading Indian engineering conglomerate, and DRDO, the premier research and development organization for defense technology in India, signifies the synergy between industry and academia in advancing defense capabilities.
The successful development of the AIP system modules will provide a significant boost to the operational capabilities of the Kalvari Class submarines of the Indian Navy. These submarines are the first indigenously built submarines under the Indian Navy’s Project 75, which aims to enhance the country’s submarine warfare capabilities. The inclusion of the AIP system will enable the submarines to conduct extended-duration missions, stealthily track and engage targets, and operate more effectively in the challenging underwater environment.
The signing of the contract between L&T and DRDO marks a significant milestone in the ongoing collaboration between the two organizations. It signifies their commitment to the development and integration of advanced defense technologies in India. The partnership not only strengthens the country’s defense industry but also contributes to the overall growth of the indigenous defense manufacturing ecosystem. It also reflects the government’s focus on self-reliance in defense production and the promotion of indigenous research and development capabilities.
The successful execution of the AIP system project will not only benefit the Indian Navy but also open up avenues for collaboration in defense technology development and manufacturing between L&T and DRDO. The experience gained from this project can be leveraged for future collaborations and the development of other advanced defense systems.
