French defence contractor Naval Group has proposed a significant upgrade for India's future Scorpene-class submarines. The core of their proposal is the use of advanced lithium-ion batteries, a move that would replace traditional lead-acid technology and offer substantial performance benefits for the Indian Navy.
This collaboration builds upon the existing partnership between Naval Group and Mazagon Dock Limited (MDL), the Indian shipyard responsible for constructing the Indian Navy's Kalvari-class (Scorpene) submarines. The proposed next-generation vessels will feature a higher degree of locally sourced components, aligning with India's push for defense manufacturing self-reliance. The submarines would also incorporate cutting-edge DRDO-developed Air-Independent Propulsion (AIP) for extended underwater operations.
The most notable change is the shift to lithium-ion batteries (LIBs). Compared to legacy lead-acid batteries, LIBs provide increased energy efficiency, reduce the need for surfacing to recharge, and enable faster charging times. Naval Group reports that the Scorpene Evolved, with its full LIB configuration, would offer significant performance improvements, including a potential total endurance of 80 days with an impressive 78 days of submerged operations.
While the Indian Navy is working with private companies like Exide to develop lithium-ion batteries for existing submarines, it may take a while before the technology is fully validated and ready for deployment.
The Naval Group's proposition offers a substantial technological leap for India's expanding submarine fleet. Lithium-ion battery technology could significantly bolster the Indian Navy's underwater capabilities, enhancing both the endurance and stealth of its future Scorpene-class submarines.
