DCNS and Pipavav have decided to establish a strategic partnership for bringing DCNS technologies, methods and skills into Pipavav, India’s first and largest integrated defence company. The focus of the teaming is to build the highest state of the art strategic assets including modern warships for the Indian Navy and Coast Guard.
Speaking on the partnership, Patrick Boissier, DCNS Chairman and CEO stated: “ Through the P75 Scorpene submarines, the on-going indigenization programme and DCNS India, we are working to enlarge our footprint in India. This strategic partnership with Pipavav again demonstrates DCNS’ confidence in the growing capabilities and long term development of the Indian Defence industries ”.
Nikhil Gandhi, Pipavav Chairman declared “ DCNS is well known for its high tech and very efficient platforms such as Scorpene submarines, Mistral-Class LPDs, FREMM frigates and innovative Gowind vessels (Corvettes and Offshore Patrol Vessels) among others. DCNS and Pipavav are to provide India with advanced expertise on naval ships. The synergies between India’s largest integrated shipyard and the proficiency of the largest European naval defence company will allow cost effective and timely manufacturing of high class vessels for the benefit of all Customers ”.
Pierre Legros, DCNS Head of the Surface Ships division concluded “ DCNS’s pledge is to become a key technology and Know-How Provider (KHP) to Pipavav. Our objective is to propose modern manufacturing processes together with state of the art platforms. DCNS is committed to transfer the technologies needed to support India’s National security needs ”.
The partnership is expected to boost India’s drive for self-reliance in the field of defence manufacturing and to create a large number of local jobs. It will further strengthen the solid Indo- French strategic relationship in the defence sector.
[mappress] Naval Today Staff , June 12, 2012; Image: Dcnsgroup