Source : IgMp News Bulletin
The Indian Navy, which has long depended on foreign suppliers for its warship engines, is now embarking on a path toward self-reliance. This bold initiative aims to develop a series of indigenous marine engines, thereby boosting domestic industries and reducing dependency on external sources.
Currently, the Indian Navy relies on a mix of diesel engines and gas turbines from Ukraine, the United States, and the United Kingdom. Although this approach has been functional, it poses challenges in terms of supply chain vulnerabilities and long-term maintenance.
The Navy’s new strategy focuses on creating diesel engines tailored for medium-class warships. To achieve this, the Navy is collaborating with Indian companies that have expertise in commercial diesel gensets and engines for smaller vessels. These projects will receive partial funding from the Navy, promoting domestic expertise and manufacturing capabilities.
For larger warships, the emphasis is on gas turbine engines. Discussions are ongoing with the Gas Turbine Research Establishment (GTRE) to develop an enhanced version of the Kaveri Marine Gas Turbine (KMGT). This new variant of the Dry Kaveri engine, featuring a low-pressure configuration and a free-power turbine, promises efficient power generation. The Dry Kaveri’s ability to maintain power output in hot Indian climates makes it an ideal candidate for medium-class warships.
The Indian Navy is also considering the co-development of electric propulsion systems for larger vessels in partnership with the United Kingdom. These systems, produced locally, would offer greater efficiency and potentially lower operating costs.
Looking further ahead, the Navy is evaluating a modified version of one of the jet engines being developed for the AMCA program as a potential marine gas turbine option for high-power needs.
The Indian Navy’s ambitious plan aims to begin trials of these domestically developed diesel engines and marine gas turbines by 2028-29. By 2040, the Navy hopes to achieve full self-sufficiency in marine propulsion systems, eliminating reliance on foreign suppliers and enhancing national security.
NOTE : Article cannot be reproduced or no information from this article should be used without written permission of theigmp.org in any form even for YouTube Videos to avoid Copy right strikes, if we find same informations or the entire article without our permission, we will take necessary action.
