In a strategic move to power the domestic warships, the Bharatiya and UK governments are discussing the possibility of an agreement to develop an Electric Propulsion System in Bharat, according to reports.
While Bharatiya warships are currently powered by diesel engines, gas turbines, or steam turbines, the electric propulsion capability is meant to power larger warships with a displacement of over 6,000 tonnes.
The UK has expressed interest through a letter of intent, with discussions underway on the terms of the agreement, including training, equipment, and infrastructure.
The collaboration will involve the UK’s GE Power Conversion and India’s “Bharat Heavy Electricals Ltd (BHEL)” to develop the ‘Integrated Full Electric Propulsion System’.
The initiative gained momentum during Defence Minister Rajnath Singh’s visit to the UK, with ongoing talks at various levels. While the UK’s Royal Navy has experience with such systems, Bharat plans to initially test the technology on landing platform docks and next-generation destroyers.
Both countries have established a joint working group to further discuss technical cooperation, showcasing the growing partnership in maritime technology development.
Notably, a joint working group on the Bharat-UK electric propulsion capability partnership met for the second time in November last year over probable discussions. In April last year, the UK’s Chief of the Defence Staff, Admiral Sir Tony Radakin said, “Bharat and the UK are holding detailed discussions over sharing technical know-how and experience on these systems.”
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