L&T Boosts Waterjet Power to 3500 kW for Naval & Commercial Ships

SOURCE: IDRW.ORG

Larsen & Toubro’s Precision Engineering Systems (L&T PES) has solidified its position as a trailblazer in India’s defence innovation landscape with the successful sea trials of its indigenously developed 651 kW (885 hp) Waterjet Propulsion System in April 2025, integrated into the Indian Navy’s Fast Interceptor Craft (FIC). Building on this milestone, L&T is now setting its sights on a more powerful 3500 kW (4760 hp) waterjet propulsion system.

The 651 kW Waterjet Propulsion System, developed under the Defence Research and Development Organisation’s (DRDO) Technology Development Fund (TDF) scheme, boasts over 70% indigenous content and was validated for high-speed operations, maneuverability, and shallow-water performance aboard FICs. These vessels, critical for coastal defence, surveillance, and anti-smuggling missions, benefit from waterjets’ ability to generate thrust by accelerating water through a pump, offering superior control and efficiency compared to conventional propellers. The system’s success, highlighted by DRDO’s X post (@DrdoTdf), demonstrates L&T’s capability to deliver reliable, homegrown maritime solutions, setting the stage for scaling up to the 3500 kW class.

The proposed 3500 kW waterjet system represents a significant technological advancement, designed to power larger, more demanding vessels. Unlike the 651 kW system tailored for smaller FICs, the 3500 kW system targets high-performance platforms requiring greater thrust, speed, and operational flexibility. L&T’s expertise at its AM Naik Heavy Engineering Complex in Surat, combined with its experience in marine engineering systems like steering gear and torpedo launchers, positions it to develop this high-power system. The move aligns with global trends, where leading manufacturers like Wärtsilä and HamiltonJet produce waterjets up to 6400 kW for advanced naval and commercial applications.

Future Applications in Naval Platforms

The 3500 kW waterjet system is poised to power a range of next-generation naval vessels, addressing India’s maritime security needs in the Indian Ocean Region (IOR). Key applications include:

1. Next-Generation Water Jet Fast Attack Crafts (NWJFACs): The Defence Acquisition Council (DAC) approved 31 NWJFACs in December 2024, as noted by @AdithyaKM_ on X. These high-speed vessels, designed for rapid response and anti-terrorism operations, require powerful propulsion for speeds exceeding 40 knots. The 3500 kW waterjet, offering enhanced thrust and maneuverability, is ideal for these platforms, enabling precise operations in littoral waters.
2. Offshore Patrol Vessels (OPVs): The Indian Navy and Coast Guard operate OPVs for ocean policing, surveillance, and anti-piracy missions. L&T’s Kattupalli shipyard has delivered seven OPVs to the Coast Guard, and the 3500 kW system could enhance future variants, providing higher speeds (25–30 knots) and shallow-draft capabilities for coastal and EEZ patrols.
3. Next-Generation Corvettes and Frigates: The Navy’s planned 18 Next-Generation Corvettes (NGCs) and additional Nilgiri-class frigates require advanced propulsion for multi-role operations, including anti-submarine warfare and maritime strike. Waterjets in the 3500 kW range, offering low noise and high efficiency, could complement gas turbine or CODAG (Combined Diesel and Gas) systems, enhancing stealth and agility.
4. Amphibious and Support Vessels: The Navy’s requirement for Landing Platform Docks (LPDs) and fleet support ships could benefit from waterjets for rapid troop deployment and logistics in shallow waters. L&T’s past collaboration with France’s Naval Group on LPDs suggests potential integration of the 3500 kW system in such platforms.

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