Indonesia Acquires Two Scorpene Evolved Full Lithium-Ion Battery Submarines
Both Scorpene Evolved Full Lithium-Ion battery (LiB) submarines acquired by Indonesia will be constructed at the shipyard owned by PT PAL in Indonesia through a technology transfer involving the company and Naval Group.
(DEFENCE SECURITY ASIA) — Just days after acquiring two patrol vessels worth Euro 1.18 billion (RM5.9 billion), Indonesia announces another significant procurement – two submarines from the French company Naval Group.
The contract for the purchase of the two Scorpene-class submarines by Indonesia was signed on March 28.
Both submarines, Scorpene Evolved Full Lithium-Ion battery (LiB) variants, will be constructed at the shipyard owned by PT PAL in Indonesia through a technology transfer involving the company and Naval Group.
Pierre Éric Pommellet, Chairman and CEO of Naval Group, stated in a press release that with the Scorpene Evolved Full Lithium-Ion battery submarines, Indonesia has chosen a high-performance and proven platform, reinforcing the nation’s maritime sovereignty and supporting the Indonesian Navy in achieving regional dominance at sea.
He also emphasized that the strategic cooperation with PT PAL would bolster Indonesia’s defense industry for its future needs.
Dr. Kaharuddin Djenod, President of PT PAL, commended the Indonesian government’s commitment to advancing local defense technology, particularly in submarine technology.
“In the future, Indonesia is expected to master submarine technology,” he said.
According to Naval Group, the Scorpene-class submarines are modern, high-performance, stealthy platforms designed to operate in both deep-sea and shallow-water environments.
They are versatile submarines capable of conducting various missions such as surface warfare, anti-submarine warfare, special operations, and intelligence gathering.
The Scorpene submarines are characterized by their high speed and automation, enabling them to operate with a limited crew and significantly reducing operational costs.
Additionally, their combat capabilities include six launch tubes capable of deploying 18 guided missiles and torpedoes.
The submarines are equipped with the SUBTICS® combat system, which handles the challenges of modern submarine operations in both deep and shallow waters.
“The Indonesian Scorpene submarines will be equipped with a modern power system based on a full lithium-ion configuration, ensuring high safety standards,” stated Naval Group.
Key features of the Scorpene Evolved Full Lithium-Ion battery submarines to be acquired by Indonesia include a weight ranging from 1,600 to 2,000 tons, a length of 72 meters, a diving speed of 20 knots, a diving depth of over 300 meters, and a crew of 31.
They can stay submerged for up to 12 days.
In addition to the two Scorpene submarines for Indonesia, Naval Group has 14 other units operational or under construction worldwide, including for the Navies of Chile, Malaysia, Brazil, and India.
On March 29, the Indonesian Ministry of Defense and the Italian company Fincantieri signed a contract worth Euro 1.18 billion (RM5.9 billion) for the acquisition of two multipurpose coastal patrol vessels of the Pattugliatori Polivalenti d’Altura (PPA) class for the Southeast Asian nation’s Navy.
According to the Italian shipbuilding company, the PPA-class coastal patrol vessels are flexible and feature advanced technology.
They can perform various functions, from patrolling to sea rescue missions, as well as civil defense and combat missions.
“Both PPA-class coastal patrol vessels will support Indonesia’s efforts in defending its interests and contributing to stability in the Indo-Pacific,” stated the Italian company.
The multipurpose coastal patrol vessel “Francesco Morosini” has a total weight of 6,400 tons and a length of 143 meters, with a crew capacity of 170. — DSA
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