Rolls-Royce Plans To Partner With Indian Navy For Nation’s First Electric Warship

Rolls-Royce has announced its interest in working with the Indian Navy to design and deploy the nation’s first electric warship.

The British engineering giant, renowned worldwide for its advanced propulsion and power systems, stated that it is well-positioned to support India’s naval modernisation with its expertise in hybrid-electric and full-electric technologies.

Abhishek Singh, Senior Vice President for Defence in India and Southeast Asia at Rolls-Royce, added that the company’s long-standing experience in defence places it in a strong position to contribute to India’s growing naval ambitions.

He further mentioned that the MT30 marine gas turbine, one of Rolls-Royce’s key innovations, has already set new standards in terms of power, reliability, and energy density. Singh said the company aims to work closely with the Indian Navy to deliver advanced propulsion systems that support India’s goal of building a modern and self-reliant defence force.

The announcement coincided with the arrival of the United Kingdom’s Carrier Strike Group (CSG), led by HMS Prince of Wales, in Mumbai as part of its Indo-Pacific deployment.

The visit showcased the kind of naval technology that Rolls-Royce could bring to India. The Prince of Wales operates on an Integrated Full Electric Propulsion (IFEP) system powered by Rolls-Royce’s MT30 gas turbines.

Each turbine alternator generates 36 megawatts of power, and along with four medium-speed diesel generators, the ship’s total output reaches 109 megawatts, enough to supply electricity to a small town.

Alex Zino, Director of Business Development and Future Programmes for Rolls-Royce in the UK and International markets, said the company is proud to power the Carrier Strike Group.

He added that the group’s visit to India offers an ideal opportunity for Indian defence stakeholders to gain first-hand insight into Rolls-Royce’s naval propulsion technologies that could enhance operational capability and resilience for the Indian Navy.

Zino also noted that Rolls-Royce continues to expand its presence in India through advanced manufacturing, supply chain partnerships, and defence engineering capabilities. This growth, he said, positions the company as a reliable partner in India’s defence modernisation efforts across air, land, and sea.

Other ships in the UK’s Carrier Strike Group, including the frigate HMS Richmond and an Astute-class submarine, are also equipped with Rolls-Royce propulsion systems, such as the Spey marine gas turbine and nuclear steam-raising plants.

Rolls-Royce, which has been in India for over 90 years, has built strong partnerships with local industries, academic institutions, and engineers. More than 1,400 Rolls-Royce engines are currently in service with the Indian Air Force, Navy, Coast Guard, and Army, supported by around 4,000 employees in the country.

Reference: ANI

Source: Maritime Shipping News