Indonesia is charting a new course in strengthening its maritime sovereignty and regional superiority with the acquisition of the advanced Scorpène Evolved Full LiB submarines, as confirmed by the partnership between the country’s state-owned shipbuilder, PT PAL Indonesia, and France’s Naval Group.
The deal, totaling $2.16 billion, will bring cutting-edge submarine technology to the Indonesian Navy (TNI AL), featuring lithium-ion batteries that enable extended submergence and a reduced charging time. These submarines, to be constructed within PT PAL’s upgraded facilities in Surabaya City, East Java, reflect a bold move in Indonesia’s defense strategy, aiming to bolster its naval capabilities with a stealthier, more resilient fleet.
According to PT PAL, the integration of the new torpedo and electronic workshop, office for the submarine division, and the $15 million ship lift and transfer system supplied by Norway’s Syncrolift AS underpins a significant advancement in the shipyard’s ability to produce and maintain state-of-the-art naval vessels.
“This step is a high commitment and trust of the Indonesian government in the capability of local engineers to advancing defence technology, especially submarine technology. The government’s commitment in realizing the independence of the defence industry is also supported by the provision of Government Capital (PMN) to fully support the whole local production of submarine at PT PAL. In the future, Indonesia is expected to be able to master submarine technology,” said Kaharuddin Djenod, President Director of PT PAL.
Admiral Muhammad Ali, TNI AL Chief of Staff, underscored the significance of the Scorpène Evolved, which comes equipped with lithium-ion batteries, stating, “The Scorpène Evolved is equipped with lithium-ion batteries, enabling it to remain submerged for quite a long time, which is exactly what we need…making the submarine more stealthy.”
Admiral Ali’s vision for the Indonesian Navy is not limited to the current contract. At the Future Submarine International Seminar & Showcase, he conveyed plans to construct additional submarine bases and eventually acquire 12 full-size submarines to secure Indonesia’s extensive maritime territory.
The Scorpène Evolved design touts a submerged speed of over 20 knots and an operational range exceeding 8,000 nautical miles. Fitted with the SUBTICS combat management system, these submarines promise a high level of automation and significant operational capabilities including anti-surface and anti-submarine warfare, special operations, and intelligence gathering.
Furthermore, with the French government’s apparent nod towards Indonesia’s purchase of additional systems like the Unmanned underwater vehicles (UUVs) and the submarine-launched SM39 B2 Mod 2 Exocet missiles, the future fleet stands to be even more formidable.
““Naval Group is very honoured to be part of this new chapter in the strategic alliance between Indonesia and France. With Scorpène Evolved Full LiB, Indonesia has chosen a high-performant, sea-proven submarine that will strengthen the country’s maritime sovereignty and support the Indonesian Navy in achieving regional superiority at sea. In addition to the submarines, our strategic partnership with PT PAL will also support the Indonesian defence industry to actively prepare the future of naval warfare in the country. We are pleased to welcome the Indonesian Navy in the Scorpène® family,” said Pierre Éric Pommellet, Chairman and CEO of Naval Group.
Relevant articles:
– Latest on Indonesia’s Scorpène and Plan to Acquire Four More Submarines, Naval News
– Indonesia Inks Contract with Naval Group and PT Pal for 2 Scorpène Evolved submarines, Naval News
– Indonesia Moving Closer to ‘Scorpene Evolved’ Submarine Deal, navalnews.com
– Indonesia turns to France’s Naval Group for submarines, Defense News