Electric Propulsion Pact Signed by India, UK

India and the United Kingdom have finalized a framework agreement to co-design and co-produce electric propulsion systems for future warships, advancing their strategic defense collaboration. Signed in Portsmouth during the third joint working group meeting on electric propulsion capability partnership, this initiative underscores the commitment to indigenous development of advanced naval technologies. 

Key Highlights of the India-UK Pact

Framework Agreement

• Focus on electric propulsion systems for futuristic warships.
• Collaborative effort aligned with the broader strategic partnership between India and the UK.

Statement of Intent (SoI)

• Signed as a roadmap for co-design, co-creation, and co-production of electric propulsion capabilities.
• Applicable to upcoming naval projects like Landing Platform Docks to be built in Indian shipyards.

Signing Ceremony

• Indian Representative: Rajeev Prakash, Joint Secretary (Naval Systems), Ministry of Defence.
• UK Representative: Rear Admiral Steve McCarthy, Director of Ships Operations and Capability Integration, UK Defence Ministry.

Strategic Context

• Marks the conclusion of the third joint working group meeting on electric propulsion.
• Reflects shared commitment to advancing indigenous and niche naval technologies.
• Builds on the recent visit of British Minister for Indo-Pacific, Catherine West, to India.

Future Naval Capabilities

• Upcoming Landing Platform Docks are envisioned to feature full electric.

Summary/Static	Details
Why in the news?	India and the UK have sealed a framework agreement to co-design and co-produce electric propulsion systems to be used in futuristic warships
Purpose	Co-design and co-produce electric propulsion capabilities for futuristic warships
Event	Third Joint Working Group Meeting on Electric Propulsion Capability Partnership
Signing Venue	Portsmouth, UK
Indian Representative	Rajeev Prakash, Joint Secretary (Naval Systems), Ministry of Defence
UK Representative	Rear Admiral Steve McCarthy, Director of Ships Operations and Capability Integration, UK MOD
Technology Focus	Electric propulsion systems for future warships, including Landing Platform Docks
Strategic Importance	Promotes indigenous development of niche naval technologies and strengthens India-UK defense ties
Follow-Up Context	Agreement signed following British Minister for Indo-Pacific Catherine West’s visit to India