In a major step towards self-reliance in defence manufacturing, the Indian Navy has signed a Project Sanction Order with Kirloskar Oil Engines Limited for the design and development of a 6MW Medium Speed Marine Diesel Engine. The agreement, signed under the Make-I category, marks a significant milestone in India’s push for indigenous defence production.

The initiative will see the prototype diesel engine developed with over 50% indigenous content at a cost of Rs 270 crore, with 70% of the funding provided by the government.

India has traditionally relied on foreign Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs) for high-capacity diesel engines. This project aims to break that dependency by fostering domestic capabilities in marine engine development. The sanctioned order also includes the design and development of diesel engines ranging from 3MW to 10MW. Once completed, these engines will be deployed for both main propulsion and power generation on ships operated by the Indian Navy and the Indian Coast Guard.

This project will also serve as a catalyst for the growth of the domestic defence industrial ecosystem, encouraging innovation and fostering technological advancements in the sector.

Led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the government has been actively promoting the indigenisation of critical defence technologies. The collaboration between the Indian Navy and Kirloskar Oil Engines Limited marks a crucial step in this direction, reinforcing India’s commitment to self-reliance and strengthening its defence capabilities for the future.