In a major boost to India’s indigenous submarine-building capability, France’s Naval Group and Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders Limited (MDL) have renewed and expanded their long-standing partnership to advance the production and technological integration of next-generation submarines under the ‘Make in India’ initiative.
The renewed collaboration marks a decisive step in strengthening India’s role in global submarine manufacturing and is aimed at equipping the Indian Navy’s Kalvari-class submarines with Air-Independent Propulsion (AIP) systems, developed indigenously by the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO).
Strengthening Indigenous Submarine Technology
Earlier in July 2025, MDL had formalised a technology transfer arrangement with Naval Group to enable the installation of DRDO-developed energy system plugs on Kalvari-class submarines. These AIP plugs are designed to enhance underwater endurance, stealth, and operational efficiency by allowing submarines to remain submerged for longer durations without surfacing for air — a key factor in modern naval warfare.
Under the latest agreement, MDL will now carry out the complex integration of these AIP plugs into existing and future Kalvari-class hulls. The integration process will build upon the proven French Scorpene submarine design, originally transferred under India’s Project 75 program.
Towards a New Era of Joint Development and Exports
With the renewal of this strategic partnership, MDL and Naval Group plan to jointly design, build, and export a new generation of advanced submarines to friendly foreign navies. This move is expected to significantly enhance India’s position as a maritime defence exporter and a regional hub for submarine technology and sustainment.
The agreement builds upon years of mutual trust, technological cooperation, and successful execution of past projects. While Naval Group brings deep expertise in submarine architecture, propulsion, and combat management systems, MDL contributes its world-class manufacturing capacity and indigenisation experience, honed through the Project 75 submarine program.
Together, the two organisations represent a powerful blend of French technological excellence and Indian manufacturing capability, offering potential partners cost-effective yet highly advanced underwater platforms.
Leadership Remarks and Strategic Vision
Commenting on the development, Marie-Laure Bourgeois, Executive Vice President of Naval Group, said the renewed accord “reflects the deep industrial and strategic bond between France and India,” highlighting the synergy between both nations in advancing naval innovation.
Commodore S. B. Jamgaonkar (Retd), Director of Submarines at MDL, described the memorandum as “a critical milestone in making India a global submarine centre of excellence,” emphasising its alignment with India’s Atmanirbhar Bharat (self-reliant India) mission.
Aligned with Indo-French Horizon 2047 Roadmap
The agreement also aligns seamlessly with the Indo-French Horizon 2047 roadmap, which envisions deeper collaboration in defence, maritime security, and advanced technology domains over the coming decades. It reinforces the strategic depth of Indo-French relations and demonstrates how long-term defence-industrial cooperation can evolve into a cornerstone of both nations’ economic and strategic partnership.
By integrating advanced AIP technology, strengthening local production, and exploring export opportunities, this partnership not only fortifies India’s underwater combat capabilities but also lays the foundation for a self-sustaining naval manufacturing ecosystem within the country.
