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India’s Navy is making significant strides in developing indigenous propulsion technology, with a strong focus on gas-turbine (GT) engines and advanced diesel-electric systems. Since December 2024, 51 platforms have been under construction across PSUs and shipyards, reflecting a sustained effort to modernise the fleet. The service has also secured Acceptance of Necessity (AoN) for 94 capital cases valued at approximately Rs 1,27,554 crore, alongside contracts worth Rs 84,762 crore, including 46 deterrent cases.
At a press conference ahead of Navy Day, Chief of the Indian Navy Dinesh K Tripathi noted that these initiatives are crucial to strengthening operational self-reliance. He stressed that the Navy is actively collaborating with domestic and international partners, including Bharat Forge and Ukraine, to develop advanced GT engines and integrated propulsion systems. Projects under development include 36-megawatt GT engines, diesel-electric systems, and electric propulsion platforms under the Make in India program. The Navy expects the first sets of these systems to be operational by 2029.
Private sector participation forms a critical pillar of these efforts. Task forces have been established to engage with industry partners, guide them on the Navy’s requirements, and facilitate prototype development. Over 1,100 proposals have been committed for prototype development, with more than 400 already funded to enhance defensive systems, propulsion technologies, and shipboard integration. The Navy Chief highlighted that multiple channels of collaboration with Ukraine are underway to achieve indigenous propulsion capabilities within the shortest possible timeframe.
These propulsion and GT engine initiatives are part of a broader modernisation strategy aimed at improving operational readiness and strategic autonomy. By integrating domestic innovation, private-sector expertise, and international collaboration, India is steadily moving toward a fully modernised fleet capable of operating anytime, anywhere.
The Navy Chief stressed that these efforts not only enhance technical capabilities but also strengthen India’s maritime posture. “We are committed to ensuring that our naval fleet remains at the cutting edge of technology, capable of safeguarding national maritime interests while fostering homegrown expertise in critical areas,” he said.
Huma Siddiqui
