SOURCE: RAUNAK KUNDE / NEWS BEAT / IDRW.ORG
French defence giant Naval Group has unveiled a compelling proposition for the Indian Navy’s upcoming Scorpene-class submarines. Their proposal centres on lithium-ion (Li-ion) battery technology, offering significant operational advantages over the conventionally used lead-acid batteries.
This collaboration leverages established expertise. Mazagon Dock Limited (MDL), having already constructed six Scorpène-class submarines for the Indian Navy (known as the Kalvari-class), will serve as the local partner for building these next-generation vessels.
The new Scorpene submarines are envisioned to have a higher percentage of indigenously sourced components, further strengthening India’s self-reliance in defence manufacturing. Additionally, these vessels will be equipped with cutting-edge technologies, including the DRDO-developed fuel-cell-based Air-Independent Propulsion (AIP) system, enhancing underwater endurance.
The Scorpene Evolved’s defining feature is its full lithium-ion battery (LIB) configuration. This advanced technology offers several advantages over traditional lead-acid batteries:
- Increased Efficiency: LIBs enable more efficient energy usage, resulting in extended underwater endurance.
- Reduced Snorkeling: Submarines equipped with LIBs need to surface less frequently for battery charging, minimizing their detection risk.
- Faster Charging: LIBs boast shorter charging times, allowing submarines to return to underwater operations more quickly.
Thanks to the full LIB configuration, the Scorpene Evolved promises significant performance improvements, including the submarine will have a total endurance of 80 days, with an impressive 78 days submerged.
Indian Navy is already Private sector companies like Exide in India for the development of lithium-ion (Li-ion) battery Packs for existing submarines but the program might take more time to validate the technology before it is used in existing Scorpène and Kilo Class Submarines.
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