India has taken a significant step towards achieving Aatmanirbharta (self-reliance) in defence with the signing of a Project Sanction Order for the design and development of a six-megawatt (MW) Medium Speed Marine Diesel Engine. This critical project falls under the Make-I category and has been awarded to Kirloskar Oil Engines Limited, marking a major breakthrough in India’s indigenous marine engine development.

The signing ceremony took place at South Block, New Delhi, on April 2, 2025, in the presence of Secretary (Defence Production) Mr. Sanjeev Kumar and Vice Chief of the Naval Staff Vice Admiral Mr. Krishna Swaminathan.

This project is valued at Rs. 270 crore (US$ 31.61 million), with 70% of the funding provided by the Government of India. The engine will be developed with over 50% indigenous content, reinforcing India's commitment to reducing reliance on foreign Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs) for critical defence technologies.

Key Features and Scope of the Project

The 6 MW Medium Speed Marine Diesel Engine is being developed for applications such as Main Propulsion and Power Generation on Indian Navy and Indian Coast Guard ships. Additionally, the project will focus on designing diesel engines ranging from 3 MW to 10 MW, covering a broad spectrum of naval and maritime applications.

This initiative aligns with India’s long-term vision of achieving self-reliance in defence technologies, particularly in critical sectors such as naval propulsion and marine engineering. Historically, high-capacity marine diesel engines have been sourced from foreign manufacturers, making this project a major step towards indigenous production and technology development.

Why This Project is a Game-Changer for India’s Defence Sector

1. Reduction in Foreign Dependence:
   India has long been dependent on foreign OEMs for high-powered diesel engines used in its naval and coast guard vessels. This project reduces reliance on imports, saving foreign exchange while strengthening India's strategic autonomy.

2. Boost to Domestic Defence Manufacturing:
   By developing this high-capacity marine engine, the project will contribute to the growth of India’s defence industrial base, supporting indigenous manufacturers and creating a robust supply chain for marine propulsion systems.

3. Enhanced Indigenous Capabilities:
   The over 50% indigenous content in this engine ensures that Indian companies and research institutions gain expertise in designing, developing, and manufacturing advanced marine propulsion systems. This expertise can be further leveraged for future naval and commercial applications.

4. Employment Generation and Skill Development:
   This project will create high-value jobs in engineering, manufacturing, and R&D, boosting employment in the defence and marine technology sectors. It will also enhance skill development in advanced engine design and naval technology.

5. Stronger Defence Ecosystem:
   The development of an indigenous marine diesel engine aligns with India's broader Aatmanirbhar Bharat initiative, ensuring that the country develops, produces, and sustains its own defence capabilities. It also paves the way for exporting Indian-made defence equipment to friendly nations.

Strategic Importance of Indigenous Marine Diesel Engines

India’s naval forces, including the Indian Navy and Indian Coast Guard, operate a wide range of vessels, from patrol boats to large warships. The availability of locally manufactured marine engines will ensure uninterrupted supply, faster maintenance, and greater operational flexibility.

This project is part of a larger effort to develop critical defence technologies within India, reducing reliance on imports and ensuring independent defence capabilities in a rapidly evolving geopolitical landscape.

Government’s Commitment to Defence Indigenization

Under the leadership of Prime Minister Mr. Narendra Modi, the Indian government has taken multiple initiatives to promote self-reliance in defence manufacturing. The Make-I category, under which this project falls, is part of the Defence Acquisition Procedure (DAP), designed to encourage the private sector to invest in R&D and manufacturing of advanced defence technologies.

The government has also introduced several policy reforms, such as:

• Increased budget allocations for defence R&D

• Incentives for private sector participation in defence production

• Collaborations between DRDO and Indian defence manufacturers

• Emphasis on indigenous development of critical defence components

These initiatives are transforming India’s defence manufacturing sector, making the country self-sufficient and positioning it as a global player in defence exports.

Conclusion: A Major Leap Towards Aatmanirbharta in Defence

The Project Sanction Order for the 6 MW Medium Speed Marine Diesel Engine represents a landmark achievement in India’s quest for Aatmanirbharta in defence technologies. By indigenizing marine engine production, India is taking a crucial step towards self-reliance, strengthening its naval capabilities, and enhancing its defence industrial base.

This initiative will not only boost domestic defence manufacturing but also pave the way for future innovations in marine technology, reinforcing India's position as a global leader in indigenous defence production.

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