Indonesia’s Leap into Submarine Manufacturing: The Scorpène Evolved Project

Indonesia is embarking on an ambitious journey to enhance its naval capabilities by constructing two Scorpène Evolved submarines in collaboration with the French defense company Naval Group. This endeavor not only marks Indonesia’s first domestic construction of advanced conventional submarines but also symbolizes a significant milestone in the country’s long-term goal of achieving self-reliance in submarine construction.

A Historic Partnership

The deal is substantial, valued between $2.1 billion and $2.16 billion, and was officially signed in March 2024. The contract came into effect on July 23, 2025, paving the way for Indonesia to become the first country to export the lithium-ion battery variant of the Scorpène submarine. The partnership is underpinned by a technology transfer agreement that allows Indonesian state-owned shipbuilder PT PAL to build these advanced vessels.

With this initiative, Indonesia aims to not only bolster its naval fleet but also develop indigenous submarine manufacturing capabilities. There is a clear vision for the country to design, build, and even export its submarines by 2042-2050.

Advanced Submarine Features

The Scorpène Evolved submarines boast several advanced features that enhance their operational capabilities. Designed for diverse missions, these submarines can engage both surface and underwater threats. They are equipped with a new propulsion system, full lithium-ion batteries, and Naval Group’s sophisticated SUBTICS combat management system.

With the lithium-ion battery configuration, each submarine can sustain missions for up to 80 days. They have the capacity to carry up to 18 heavyweight torpedoes along with SM39 Exocet anti-ship missiles. Moreover, Naval Group has stated plans to integrate the next-generation SM40 submarine-launched Exocet missile into the design, further augmenting its offensive capabilities.

The submarines also feature a comprehensive Platform Management System (PMS) for monitoring and controlling crucial onboard systems such as propulsion, energy generation, and diving safety. This includes integrated technologies that collect data from various sensors throughout the vessel to oversee operations effectively.

Industry Standards and Training

To meet stringent international standards, the submarines will be constructed using specialized steel akin to that used in French attack submarines. This material requires strict adherence to welding standards and a range of quality inspections, setting a high bar for Indonesian manufacturing.

In preparation for this project, PT PAL employees underwent extensive training in Cherbourg, France, for two to three months. This training focused on welding techniques, quality control, and preheating procedures crucial for submarine construction. Currently, Naval Group has a team of eight experts working alongside PT PAL, with the numbers set to increase to around 50 as the project progresses.

Knowledge transfer is a cornerstone of this partnership. Operational personnel from both nations are collaborating closely, with French staff learning Bahasa Indonesia to improve communication and foster a more integrated working relationship.

Strategic Maritime Importance

Indonesia’s geographical positioning, located along vital shipping routes such as the Malacca, Sunda, and Lombok straits, renders a robust submarine capability essential. The Scorpène submarines are expected to play a pivotal role in Indonesia’s maritime strategy, supporting surveillance, intelligence gathering, and sea-denial operations across its expansive waters.

As part of a broader regional strategy, discussions have also revolved around making Indonesia a hub for production, maintenance, and repair of Scorpène submarines, should this program prove successful.

Job Creation and Industrial Growth

The undertaking is anticipated to create approximately 2,250 skilled jobs across various sectors, including manufacturing, engineering, and long-term submarine support. The program’s structure includes collaboration with multiple Indonesian companies alongside PT PAL, further contributing to the growth of the country’s defense industry.

The expected timeline for the first submarine’s construction includes sea trials from 2030 to 2032, with anticipated delivery in 2032. The second submarine is set to follow with construction commencing in 2027, sea trials in 2031-2033, and delivery in 2033, contingent upon a smooth progression of the program.

Innovation in Naval Warfare

The Scorpène Evolved submarines incorporate acoustic-reduction technologies derived from advanced French submarine programs, designed to minimize operational noise. Their sonar systems employ cutting-edge signal processing for superior detection and tracking capabilities, essential for modern naval warfare.

In contrast to traditional diesel-electric submarines that rely on lead-acid batteries, the lithium-ion system in the Scorpène allows for extended underwater operational capacities and reduces the frequency of necessary surface intervals for recharging.

With an operational range exceeding 8,000 nautical miles and the ability to reach speeds of over 20 knots while submerged, these submarines represent a significant leap forward in naval technology and operational readiness for Indonesia.

As Indonesia forges ahead with this landmark project in submarine manufacturing, it not only aims to enhance its maritime defense capabilities but also to firmly establish itself as a progressive player in the global naval industry. The Scorpène Evolved program stands as a testament to the nation’s vision for a self-sustaining future in defense and technology.