SOURCE: AFI
In a significant step towards enhancing India’s naval capabilities, a state-of-the-art land-based submarine battery test facility was inaugurated at the Naval Science and Technological Laboratory (NSTL) on October 4, 2024, by Dr. Samir V Kamat, Chairman of the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO). The facility focuses on testing and developing Lithium-Ion (Li-Ion) batteries, which are crucial for the future of India’s submarine fleet.
The newly commissioned facility, part of the ‘Indigenously Designed, Developed and Manufactured’ (IDDM) initiative, is a result of a collaboration with HBL Power Systems Limited under a Transfer of Technology (ToT) agreement. This partnership aims to harness HBL’s expertise in battery technology for defense applications, ensuring that the Indian Navy can benefit from cutting-edge, home-grown solutions.
The Li-Ion battery technology promises several advantages over the traditional lead-acid batteries currently in use:
- Safety: Li-Ion batteries are considered safer due to reduced risk of gas emissions and explosions, crucial for the confined environment of a submarine.
- Indiscretion Ratio: One of the most significant benefits is the improved indiscretion ratio, which refers to the time a submarine must spend on the surface to recharge its batteries. Li-Ion batteries allow submarines to stay submerged longer, enhancing stealth capabilities and operational effectiveness.
- Energy Density and Efficiency: These batteries provide higher energy density, enabling submarines to operate at higher speeds or for extended periods without surfacing, thus improving their strategic reach and mission flexibility.
The Indian Navy has expressed keen interest in adopting this technology not only for future submarines but also for retrofitting existing platforms. This move aligns with the broader goal of self-reliance in defense manufacturing, reducing dependency on foreign suppliers, and addressing the specific operational needs of the Indian Ocean’s strategic environment.
With this facility, India joins a select group of nations capable of producing high-performance submarine batteries. The transition to Li-Ion technology is expected to significantly boost the combat readiness of the Indian Navy’s submarine fleet, offering tactical advantages in the increasingly contested waters of the Indo-Pacific region.
The collaboration with HBL Power Systems, known for its robust battery solutions for various sectors including defense, underscores a commitment to quality and performance. The ToT framework will enable HBL to further develop and scale up production, potentially leading to exports and establishing India as a key player in defense technology.
As Dr. Kamat stated during the inauguration, “This facility is not just a testament to our scientific capabilities but also a beacon for our vision of a self-reliant defense sector. The Indian Navy’s adoption of IDDM Li-Ion batteries shows our commitment to enhancing our naval prowess through indigenous innovation.”