PT PAL, Naval Group mark production milestone for Indonesia’s Scorpène evolved sub

December 15, 2025, by Fatima Bahtić

Shipbuilders PT PAL Indonesia and Naval Group have conducted a steel cutting qualification section for the Republic of Indonesia’s Scorpène evolved submarine.

As informed, the qualification section marks a critical milestone in the production training phase, aimed at validating PT PAL engineers’ readiness to transition into independent submarine construction. The stage is designed to rigorously test core manufacturing competencies, including precision welding, blasting, painting, and pre-outfitting.

All work carried out during this phase will undergo a formal acceptance process conducted by Naval Group, making it a mandatory prerequisite before full-scale construction of the Scorpène evolved submarine can begin.

The qualification process builds on an earlier three-month intensive training programme completed by PT PAL engineers at Naval Group’s facilities in Cherbourg, France. There, welders received hands-on instruction from certified specialists, focusing on submarine-specific welding standards and techniques.

The qualification section now provides a practical environment for engineers to apply and validate those skills on site, under the direct supervision and technical guidance of Naval Group’s expert team, according to PT PAL.

“The qualification section is not just technical work, but the foundation for Indonesia to master submarine technology independently. Close collaboration with Naval Group ensures that technology transfer is effective and structured. Through this partnership, Indonesia is entering a crucial phase towards achieving independence in underwater defense with global competitiveness,” PT PAL Indonesia’s Technology Director, Briljan Gazalba, said.

“This first steel cutting is a highly anticipated moment. This marks the start of production for the Republic of Indonesia’s Scorpene Submarine program, built in Indonesia, by Indonesia, and for Indonesia. This contract also marks the strong cooperation between our two countries,” Naval Group’s Program Director, Vincent Vimont, added.

Through this structured approach, Indonesia is expected to develop long-term industrial capabilities to independently design, build, and maintain submarines. Furthermore, according to the project milestone, the fabrication process will begin in June 2026.