The formal activation of the Scorpène® Evolved submarine contract between Indonesia and Naval Group marks a pivotal moment in Southeast Asia’s defence landscape. Under the agreement, two advanced submarines will be constructed at Indonesia’s PT PAL shipyard, with full technology transfer ensuring long-term sovereignty and capability for the Indonesian Navy. This initiative not only strengthens Indonesia’s maritime defence posture but also cements its position as a regional leader in naval innovation.
Since the contract’s signing, Naval Group and PT PAL have been laying the groundwork for production, including design work, procurement of long-lead items, and workforce training. In the coming weeks, Indonesian welders will receive specialised training in France, while around 50 Naval Group experts will be deployed to Indonesia to train over 400 local engineers in submarine construction. This collaborative approach underscores the commitment to fostering Indonesian expertise and self-sufficiency in submarine technology.
Beyond the immediate delivery of submarines, the partnership extends into long-term strategic collaboration. Naval Group has signed multiple memorandums of understanding (MoUs) with Indonesian defence industries and the National Research and Innovation Agency (BRIN) to advance joint research and development in marine defence technologies. The establishment of PT Naval Group Nusantara further solidifies this commitment, demonstrating Naval Group’s dedication to Indonesia as a key strategic partner.
“The implementation of this contract is a significant milestone in the strategic alliance between Indonesia and France, which we are honoured to be a part of,” said Pierre Eric Pommellet, Chairman and CEO of Naval Group. “Together with our strategic partner PT PAL, we will support Indonesia in its ambition to build a modern, sovereign, and resilient Indonesian naval industry for the benefit of the Indonesian Navy.”
Dr. Kaharuddin Djenod, President Director of PT PAL, echoed this sentiment, emphasising the government’s trust in local engineering capabilities. “This step is a high commitment and trust of the Indonesian government in the capability of local engineers to advancing defence technology, especially submarine technology. The government’s commitment in realizing the independence of the defence industry is also supported by the provision of Government Capital (PMN) to fully support the whole local production of submarine at PT PAL. In the future, Indonesia is expected to be able to master submarine technology.”
The Scorpène® Evolved programme is more than a procurement deal—it is a blueprint for Indonesia’s defence industrial sovereignty. By mastering submarine technology, Indonesia not only enhances its naval deterrence but also positions itself as a hub for advanced defence manufacturing in the region. The collaboration between Naval Group and PT PAL sets a precedent for future defence partnerships, where technology transfer and local capacity-building take centre stage. As Indonesia continues to invest in its defence capabilities, this initiative could inspire similar models of cooperation across Southeast Asia, fostering greater regional security and industrial resilience.
