GE Aerospace’s LM2500 Gas Turbine Engine Chosen for Indian Navy’s Next Generation Missile Vessels
In a significant boost to India’s maritime capabilities, GE Aerospace has been selected to supply its renowned LM2500 gas turbine engine for the Indian Navy’s upcoming fleet of Next Generation Missile Vessels (NGMV). A total of six engine kits are set to be delivered for assembly and testing at Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) Industrial and Marine Gas Turbine Division in Bangalore.
Amy Gowder, President and CEO of GE Aerospace Defense & Systems, expressed pride in this collaboration, stating, “The LM2500 gas turbine’s proven power and reliability make it the ideal choice for the NGMV mission. We are proud to continue our collaboration with HAL to deliver this critical technology for India’s maritime defense.”
India’s Cochin Shipyard Limited is spearheading the construction of the six next-generation vessels, with a project budget exceeding $1 billion. The delivery of these advanced warships is slated to commence in March 2027. Designed for maritime strike, anti-surface operations, and sea-denial roles, the vessels will play a crucial role in both local naval defense and the protection of offshore development areas. They will be equipped with a range of anti-surface weaponry, including eight anti-ship or land-attack missiles like the BrahMos, alongside features such as stealth capabilities and a top speed of 35 knots (65 kilometers/40 miles per hour).
The LM2500 gas turbine, first deployed in 1969 on the US Navy’s GTS Admiral W M Callaghan cargo ship, produces a robust 25,060 kilowatts of power and is currently utilized by 33 navies worldwide, including the US Navy. HAL has a rich history of assembling and testing LM2500 engines, having outfitted the Indian Navy’s three P17 (Shivalik class) and six P17A (Nilgiri class) frigates, as well as the aircraft carrier IAC-1 Vikrant.
D. Sunil, Chairman and Managing Director of HAL, emphasized the longstanding partnership with GE Aerospace, stating, “GE Aerospace has been our valued partner for several decades in marine applications and aerospace. With the addition of the NGMV program, our partnership will further strengthen to greater heights.”
The selection of GE Aerospace’s LM2500 engine marks a significant step toward enhancing India’s naval prowess as it prepares to bolster its defenses against emerging maritime threats.
