France's Naval Group and India's MDL Expand Partnership for Advanced AIP-Equipped Submarine Production
India's indigenous submarine construction capabilities received a significant boost as France's Naval Group and Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders Limited (MDL) have revitalized and broadened their long-standing partnership. This collaboration aims to enhance the production and technological integration of next-generation submarines under the 'Make in India' initiative.
This renewed partnership is a crucial step in bolstering India's position in global submarine manufacturing. It focuses on equipping the Indian Navy's Kalvari-class submarines with Air-Independent Propulsion (AIP) systems developed by the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO).
Strengthening Indigenous Submarine Technology
Previously, in July 2025, MDL formalized a technology transfer arrangement with Naval Group. This agreement facilitates the installation of DRDO-developed energy system plugs on Kalvari-class submarines. The AIP plugs are engineered to improve underwater endurance, stealth, and efficiency, enabling submarines to remain submerged longer without needing to surface — a critical aspect of modern naval warfare.
Under the new agreement, MDL will undertake the integration of these AIP plugs into current and future Kalvari-class hulls. This integration will be based on the proven French Scorpene submarine design, initially transferred under India's Project 75 program.
Towards a New Era of Joint Development and Exports
The renewed strategic partnership between MDL and Naval Group aims to jointly design, construct, and export a new generation of advanced submarines to allied foreign navies. This initiative is anticipated to significantly enhance India's standing as a maritime defense exporter and as a regional hub for submarine technology and maintenance.
The agreement reinforces a history of mutual trust, technological collaboration, and successful project execution. While Naval Group brings expertise in submarine architecture, propulsion, and combat systems, MDL offers its premier manufacturing capacity and indigenization experience, honed during the Project 75 submarine program.
Together, these organizations combine French technological excellence and Indian manufacturing expertise, offering potential partners cost-effective, advanced underwater platforms.
Leadership Remarks and Strategic Vision
Marie-Laure Bourgeois, Executive Vice President of Naval Group, commented that the renewed agreement “reflects the deep industrial and strategic bond between France and India,” emphasizing the synergy between the two nations in promoting naval innovation.
Commodore S. B. Jamgaonkar (Retd), Director of Submarines at MDL, hailed the memorandum as “a critical milestone in making India a global submarine center of excellence,” stressing its alignment with India's Atmanirbhar Bharat (self-reliant India) mission.
Aligned with Indo-French Horizon 2047 Roadmap
The agreement is also in line with the Indo-French Horizon 2047 roadmap, which envisions enhanced collaboration in defense, maritime security, and advanced technology sectors over the coming decades. It underscores the strategic depth of Indo-French relations and illustrates how long-term defense-industrial cooperation can become a cornerstone of both nations' economic and strategic partnership.
By incorporating advanced AIP technology, reinforcing local production, and exploring export avenues, this partnership not only strengthens India's underwater combat capabilities but also lays the groundwork for a sustainable naval manufacturing ecosystem within the country.
