India and the United Kingdom are moving forward with plans to jointly develop advanced maritime electric propulsion (EP) systems for the Indian Navy, marking a significant step in defence cooperation between the two nations.
Commodore James Blackmore, commander of the HMS Prince of Wales carrier strike group, said the collaboration sends a powerful message of “shared understanding” between India and the UK. His remarks followed the fourth India–UK Electric Propulsion Capability Partnership Working Group meeting, held in Goa, where both sides discussed a framework for developing and manufacturing EP systems for India’s future amphibious ships.
Talks also explored the possible creation of a land-based test facility in India, designed to support joint research and system trials.
“We have a shared understanding of each other’s technology and innovation,” Blackmore said. “From an electric propulsion perspective, the UK has been doing this for quite a number of years. That shows the level of cooperation both countries are willing to strive towards.”
The announcement came as part of a joint statement released after a bilateral meeting between Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer.
Electric propulsion systems replace traditional mechanical shaft drives with integrated power systems that distribute energy efficiently between propulsion, sensors, and weapons. The technology enhances fuel efficiency, reduces noise, and supports emerging high-energy applications such as directed-energy weapons and advanced radar systems.
The initiative aligns with India’s long-term naval modernisation roadmap, aimed at enhancing the operational capability, sustainability, and technological sophistication of its maritime fleet.
