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Development of Electric Propulsion System For Indian Warships

Published: 3rd May, 2024

Context

The recent discussions between the Centre and the UK government regarding the development of an electric propulsion system in India to power domestic warships mark a significant milestone in India's maritime capabilities.

1: Dimension- Significance of the Agreement

  • Currently, Indian warships rely on diesel engines, gas turbines, or steam turbines for propulsion. The shift towards electric propulsion, especially for larger warships exceeding 6,000 tonnes displacement, signifies a strategic leap in naval operations.
  • Electric propulsion harnesses electrical power to drive propeller blades, offering enhanced efficiency and maneuverability.
  • It promises to revolutionize ship navigation, reduce carbon footprint, and augment electric power availability, thereby enhancing overall operational effectiveness.

2: Dimension- Impact on Maritime Security and Defense

  • Strengthened security posture: The adoption of electric propulsion technology is poised to strengthen India's maritime security posture by equipping its warships with cutting-edge propulsion systems.
  • Enhanced maneuverability and operational efficiency offered by electric propulsion will bolster the country's naval capabilities, enabling swift response to evolving threats and challenges in the maritime domain.
  • Self-reliance in defense manufacturing: The collaboration with the UK underscores India's commitment to leveraging international partnerships for technological advancement and indigenous defense production, aligning with the broader goal of self-reliance in defense manufacturing.
  • Stability: By harnessing innovative technologies and fostering strategic partnerships, India is poised to emerge as a formidable maritime power, capable of safeguarding its maritime interests and contributing to regional stability in the Indo-Pacific region.

Fact Box: Key-details of the Agreement:

  • Aim: to foster collaboration between the Indian and UK navies for the development of electric propulsion capability in India.
  • Other aspects of the pact: Training, equipment procurement, and infrastructure development, to ensure a comprehensive approach towards building indigenous electric propulsion capabilities.
  • The partnership entails collaboration between UK's GE Power Conversion and India's Bharat Heavy Electricals Ltd (BHEL) for the development of the 'Integrated Full Electric Propulsion System'.
  • Notably, the UK Royal Navy's Queen Elizabeth Class aircraft carriers serve as models for integrated full electric propulsion vessels.

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