India’s leading warship and submarine builder, Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders Limited (MDL), announced that it has signed an exclusive Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Naval Group, France, on October 16, 2025. The MoU aims to jointly offer evolved and advanced submarine solutions to a friendly foreign nation under its ongoing submarine acquisition programme.
This exclusive partnership reinforces the deep and long-standing cooperation between MDL and Naval Group in the field of submarine design and construction. Earlier in July 2025, MDL had entered into a formal agreement with Naval Group for the transfer of technology (ToT) to integrate indigenous energy system plugs, developed by India’s Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO), into the Indian Navy’s Kalvari-class (Scorpène-class) submarines.
Under this agreement, MDL will undertake the complex process of “Jumboisation” — involving precision cutting of the submarine’s hull, safe insertion of the new energy plug, and rejoining of the structure to restore full operational capability. Naval Group, as the original equipment manufacturer (OEM), will extend comprehensive technical support, provide proprietary materials, and conduct specialised training for MDL engineers to ensure successful execution of the project.
In a related development, the Ministry of Defence (MoD) in December 2024 had signed two key contracts worth approximately ₹2,867 crore to enhance the operational capabilities of the Indian Navy’s submarines. The first contract, valued at ₹1,990 crore, was awarded to Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders Ltd for the construction of an Air-Independent Propulsion (AIP) plug, which will significantly improve the underwater endurance of Indian submarines. The second contract, worth ₹877 crore, was signed with Naval Group, France, for the integration of the Electronic Heavyweight Torpedo (EHWT) system, developed jointly with DRDO.
These initiatives underscore India’s growing expertise in indigenous submarine technology and its strategic collaboration with trusted international partners. The latest MoU between MDL and Naval Group represents another milestone in strengthening India’s global footprint in advanced submarine design and export.
Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders Ltd (MDL) is a leading state-owned shipyard in India, known for constructing warships and submarines for the Indian Navy and other clients. Located in Mumbai, MDL has played a pivotal role in strengthening India’s maritime defense capabilities.
The company specializes in building a wide range of vessels, including destroyers, frigates, and submarines, and is also involved in commercial shipbuilding and offshore platforms. With a strong legacy dating back to 1774, Mazagon Dock has earned a reputation for its technical expertise, innovation, and commitment to quality, making it a critical asset in India’s shipbuilding industry.
