Indonesia Buys 2 Scorpene Submarines
Hot off the purchase of a pair of Italian Fincantieri warships, Indonesia inked another major deal with France’s state-owned Naval Group for the purchase of two Scorpene Evolved diesel-electric attack submarines. In a statement released by Naval Group, the contract was a result of a collaboration with Indonesia’s very own PT PAL since their Strategic Partnership Agreement in February of 2022.
The contract stipulates that the two Scorpene submarines are to be built in Surabaya, Indonesia by PT PAL, a feat attributable to a ‘proven transfer of know-how and technology from Naval Group, and reusing 100% of PT PAL assets.’
Chairman and CEO of Naval Group, Pierre Éric Pommellet said, “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”,
President Director of PT PAL Dr. Kaharuddin Djenod added, “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 realising the independence of the defence industry is also supported by the provision of Government Capital 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.”
The Scorpene Evolved ordered by Indonesia will be equipped with an advanced lithium-ion configuration which allows it to operate at sea for more than 240 days per year. It is also fitted with the latest SUBTICS combat management system
With an overall length of 72 metres, the Scorpene Evolved is crewed by 31 personnel and is equipped with 6 torpedo tubes with a total weapon payload of 18.
The Royal Malaysian Navy (RMN) currently operates two Scorpene submarines with the Indian Navy operating six units. Four Scorpenes are in service with the Brazilian Navy while the Chilean Navy also operates a pair.-shp/adj/dl (Pix:Naval Group)