India-U.K. Partnership on Electric Propulsion Systems

India and the United Kingdom are enhancing their defence cooperation through a Statement of Intent (SoI) focused on electric propulsion systems for the Indian Navy. This collaboration aims to develop indigenous technologies and capabilities. The initiative was formalised during the third joint working group meeting, marking step in naval innovation.

Recent Developments

The SoI serves as a framework for co-design, co-creation, and co-production of electric propulsion systems for future naval ships. The Indian Defence Ministry brought into light that Landing Platform Docks built in India are expected to feature full electric propulsion systems. This move aligns with India’s broader goal of self-reliance in defence technology.

Joint Working Group Meetings

The second meeting of the joint working group in November 2023 focused on critical aspects of the electric propulsion partnership. Discussions included the finalisation of the Statement of Technical Requirements (SOTR) and Factory Acceptance Test (FAT) procedures. Maintenance strategies and system integration requirements were also key topics.

U.K. Expertise in Maritime Electric Propulsion

The U.K. has been a leader in maritime electric propulsion for over two decades. Admiral Sir Tony Radakin emphasised the importance of this partnership, stating that collaboration with the U.K. allows India to bypass lengthy development processes. The U.K. is keen to share its expertise in jet engine and electric propulsion technologies.

Future Naval Capabilities

The Indian Navy is exploring the construction of a second indigenous aircraft carrier. Initial plans included a carrier with a displacement of 65,000 tonnes and advanced capabilities like Catapult Assisted Take Off But Arrested Recovery (CATOBAR). However, these plans have been revised due to cost considerations. The Navy is now looking at a modified version of the Vikrant-class carrier, pending approval from the Defence Ministry.

Indigenous Development Focus

This partnership puts stress on India’s commitment to indigenous development in defence. By collaborating with the U.K., India aims to accelerate its technological capabilities and reduce dependency on foreign systems. The focus on electric propulsion technology is a step towards modernising the Indian Navy.

Strategic Defence Collaboration

The collaboration between India and the U.K. reflects a strategic shift in defence partnerships. It marks the importance of joint ventures in advancing military technology. Such alliances are crucial for enhancing national security and ensuring operational readiness.

Questions for UPSC:

1. Critically analyse the significance of electric propulsion systems in modern naval warfare.
2. Point out the implications of India’s focus on indigenous defence technology development.
3. Estimate the potential impact of the India-U.K. defence partnership on regional security dynamics.
4. What are the challenges faced by India in developing indigenous aircraft carriers? Discuss with suitable examples.

Answer Hints:

1. Critically analyse the significance of electric propulsion systems in modern naval warfare.

1. Electric propulsion systems (EPS) enhance stealth capabilities, reducing noise and heat signatures of naval vessels.
2. EPS allows for greater energy efficiency, enabling longer operational ranges and reduced fuel costs.
3. Modern naval warfare increasingly relies on advanced technologies, making EPS crucial for next-generation ships.
4. Integration of EPS supports advanced weapon systems and automation, improving combat effectiveness.
5. EPS contributes to sustainability goals, aligning naval operations with environmental considerations.

2. Point out the implications of India’s focus on indigenous defence technology development.

1. Enhancing self-reliance reduces dependency on foreign military systems and technology.
2. Indigenous development encourages local defence industry growth, creating jobs and boosting the economy.
3. It strengthens national security by ensuring access to critical technologies during geopolitical tensions.
4. Collaboration with foreign partners accelerates technology transfer and innovation.
5. Focus on indigenous systems encourages research and development, leading to advanced military capabilities.

3. Estimate the potential impact of the India-U.K. defence partnership on regional security dynamics.

1. The partnership enhances India’s naval capabilities, contributing to a more balanced regional power structure.
2. It encourages closer ties between India and the U.K., promoting stability in the Indo-Pacific region.
3. Collaborative development of advanced technologies may deter aggression from regional adversaries.
4. The partnership can lead to joint exercises and interoperability, strengthening collective security initiatives.
5. Increased collaboration may encourage other nations to engage with India, enhancing diplomatic relations.

4. What are the challenges faced by India in developing indigenous aircraft carriers? Discuss with suitable examples.

1. High costs associated with advanced technology development can strain defence budgets, as seen with the Vikrant-class carrier.
2. Complexity of integrating modern technologies, such as electric propulsion, poses engineering challenges.
3. Limited experience in large-scale shipbuilding can affect timelines and project execution.
4. Dependency on foreign components for critical systems can hinder complete indigenization efforts.
5. Regulatory and bureaucratic hurdles can delay approvals and project progress, impacting overall timelines.