Naval Group, PT PAL pen deal for Indonesia’s Scorpène evolved LiB submarines

French shipbuilder Naval Group and Indonesian shipbuilding company PT PAL have signed a contract with Indonesia for two Scorpène evolved full lithium-ion battery (LiB) submarines.

As informed, Indonesia chose Naval Group and PT PAL to strengthen the capabilities of the Indonesian Navy. Under the agreement signed on March 28, the submarines will be built in Indonesia in PT PAL shipyard, through a transfer of technology from Naval Group.

“Naval Group is very honoured to be part of this new chapter in the strategic alliance between Indonesia and France. With Scorpène Evolved Full LiB, Indonesia has chosen a high-performant, sea-proven submarine that will strengthen the country’s maritime sovereignty and support the Indonesian Navy in achieving regional superiority at sea. In addition to the submarines, our strategic partnership with PT PAL will also support the Indonesian defence industry to actively prepare the future of naval warfare in the country. We are pleased to welcome the Indonesian Navy in the Scorpène family”, Pierre Éric Pommellet, Chairman and CEO of Naval Group said.

“This step is a high commitment and trust of the Indonesian government in the capability of local engineers to advancing defence technology, especially submarine technology. The government’s commitment in realizing the independence of the defence industry is also supported by the provision of Government Capital (PMN) to fully support the whole local production of submarine at PT PAL. In the future, Indonesia is expected to be able to master submarine technology,” Kaharuddin Djenod, President Director of PT PAL stated.

According to Naval Group, Scorpène is a modern, high-performant, and stealthy submarine.

Specifically, the Indonesian Scorpène submarines will be fitted with an energy system based on a full lithium-ion configuration which encompasses “the highest security and safety standards and allows a higher range of useful energy and a reduced charging time”.

Moreover, the vessels will feature the latest generation of combat system, SUBTICS, which addresses the growing challenges of modern submarines missions in blue and shallow waters.

In addition to these two Indonesian Scorpène submarines, 14 other units designed and adapted by Naval Group for the export market are in operational service or under construction around the world.

These include two submarines for the Chilean Navy, two for the Malaysian Navy, four for the Brazilian Navy and six for the Indian Navy. Recently, the third Scorpène submarine for the Brazilian Navy was launched at the Itaguaí Naval base.