Anglo Belgian Corporation is in advanced discussions with Kirloskar Oil Engines to support India’s indigenous 6 MW marine diesel engine program, a landmark initiative valued at ₹270 crores that aims to reduce dependence on foreign suppliers and strengthen self-reliance in defence propulsion technologies.

The collaboration is expected to accelerate the design, development, and deployment of medium-speed marine engines for the Indian Navy and Coast Guard.

The Indian Navy and Kirloskar Oil Engines Limited have already signed a Project Sanction Order under the Make-I category for the design and development of a 6 MW medium-speed marine diesel engine. 

The prototype will be developed at a cost of ₹270 crores, with 70% of the funding provided by the Government of India. More than 50% of the content will be indigenous, marking a decisive step towards Atmanirbhar Bharat in defence.

The agreement also covers the development of detailed designs for engines ranging from 3 MW to 10 MW. These engines will be deployed for main propulsion and power generation on naval and coast guard vessels.

Until now, most high-capacity marine diesel engines were imported from foreign Original Equipment Manufacturers, making this project a critical milestone in India’s journey towards technological sovereignty.

The Anglo Belgian Corporation, a century-old European engine manufacturer known for its expertise in medium-speed diesel engines, is now in talks with Kirloskar Oil Engines to provide technical support and collaborative expertise.

This partnership could bring advanced European know-how into India’s indigenous program, ensuring reliability and performance while maintaining sovereign control over intellectual property.

The signing ceremony took place in New Delhi in April 2025, attended by senior defence officials including Secretary (Defence Production) Sanjeev Kumar and Vice Chief of Naval Staff Vice Admiral Krishna Swaminathan.

Kirloskar Oil Engines was represented by its senior leadership, including Managing Director Gauri Kirloskar, who emphasised the company’s commitment to ‘India First’ and its engineering strength in marine propulsion.

The project is expected to catalyse the development of India’s defence industrial ecosystem. By indigenising critical technologies, India will save foreign exchange, reduce dependency on external suppliers, and stimulate innovation across the domestic manufacturing base.

The engines will also support future naval modernisation programs, including larger combatants and auxiliary vessels.

Anglo Belgian Corporation’s involvement is particularly significant as it brings proven expertise in marine propulsion systems, including engines used in European navies and commercial fleets. Its collaboration with Kirloskar Oil Engines could accelerate the prototyping process, enhance quality assurance, and ensure that India’s indigenous engines meet global standards of performance and durability.

The initiative aligns with Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision of Atmanirbhar Bharat, where indigenous capability in critical technologies is seen as essential for strategic autonomy. The marine diesel engine program is one of the most complex undertakings in India’s defence sector, requiring advanced metallurgy, precision engineering, and long-term support infrastructure.

The partnership is also expected to generate employment, foster skill development, and strengthen India’s position as a hub for advanced marine propulsion technologies.

With Kirloskar Oil Engines leading the indigenous effort and Anglo Belgian Corporation providing collaborative expertise, India is poised to achieve a breakthrough in sovereign marine engine capability.

This development signals a major shift in India’s defence industrial base, where private sector companies are increasingly playing a pivotal role alongside public sector enterprises.

The success of this program will not only meet India’s domestic naval requirements but also open opportunities for exports in the global marine propulsion market.