L&T's Indigenous 651 kW Waterjet Propulsion System Passes Sea Trials for Indian Navy.
Science and Technology
On April 15, 2025, Mumbai (Maharashtra)-based Larsen & Toubro’s Precision Engineering Systems (L&T PES) successfully completed preliminary sea trials of its indigenously developed 651 kilowatt (kW) Waterjet Propulsion System, marking a significant milestone in enhancing India’s naval propulsion technology under the Technology Development Fund (TDF) scheme of the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO).
- The cutting-edge system was trialed aboard the Indian Navy’s (IN’s) Fast Interceptor Craft (FIC), where it demonstrated high-speed operational capability exceeding 45 knots (equivalent to 85 kilometers per hour, km/h).
- With over 70% Indigenous Content (IC), the propulsion system boosts the nation's self-reliance and aligns with the 'Make in India' initiative in the defence sector.
- The 651 kW Waterjet Propulsion System was developed at Larsen & Toubro’s AM Naik Heavy Engineering Complex located in Surat, Gujarat, as part of the company’s efforts to boost indigenous defence manufacturing capabilities.
Main Point :- (i) This advanced propulsion system is engineered to support a range of critical naval operations, including high-speed interception, coastal patrolling, surveillance, and search-and-rescue missions. Its deployment is expected to significantly strengthen the Indian Navy’s coastal security framework.
(ii) Unlike conventional propeller systems, the waterjet propulsion system operates by accelerating water through a pump to generate thrust, enabling rapid response and high-precision maneuverability. This makes it highly suitable for Fast Interceptor Crafts (FICs) engaged in agile, high-speed missions.
(iii) The system is equipped with integrated steering and braking mechanisms, allowing for a compact design that ensures better control at elevated speeds. It also delivers enhanced efficiency, reduced noise levels, and is capable of operating effectively in shallow-water environments.
About Larsen & Toubro Limited (L&T)
Chairman & Managing Director (CMD): Sekharipuram Narayanan (S.N.) Subrahmanyan
Headquarter : Mumbai
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