In a significant move towards boosting indigenous manufacturing under the ‘Make in India’ initiative, Garden Reach Shipbuilders and Engineers Limited (GRSE) and Rolls-Royce have joined hands.
They inked a comprehensive agreement on Tuesday to collaboratively produce and adapt MTU IMO Tier II compliant series 4000 marine engines for government vessels.
This partnership aims to localize the production of these engines, emphasizing the commitment to self-reliance in the defense and maritime sectors.
This development is poised to contribute significantly to the country’s technological capabilities and strengthen its position in maritime defense.
As per an official statement, this joint endeavor holds immense market promise in the upcoming years, particularly for the Indian Navy and the Indian Coast Guard’s fast patrol vessels, interceptor boats, and fast attack craft projects.
The manufacturing hub for these engines will be the Diesel Engine Plant located in Ranchi, managed by GRSE, as outlined in the agreement.
The scope of the License Agreement and individual license rights will encompass various aspects, tailored to meet the specific needs of the end customer.
This strategic collaboration is set to play a pivotal role in addressing the growing demands of our defense forces and fostering self-sufficiency in crucial maritime capabilities.
The partnership involves multiple key activities:
1. Assembly of Licensee-Built Products:
This includes putting together products that are constructed under the licensing agreement.
2. Manufacturing or Procurement of Licensee-Built Parts/Components:
The agreement covers the production or acquisition of specific parts and components from the licensee, essential for the construction of the licensed products.
3. Engine Testing and Finishing (Including Painting):
The testing phase, as well as the final touches such as painting, are integral parts of the manufacturing process covered by the agreement.
4. Manufacturing or Procurement of Licensee-Built Parts/Components for Local Production:
This involves the production or acquisition of parts and components from the licensee specifically for the localized production of licensed products within the designated territory.
5. Sale and After-Sales Services:
- The agreement extends to the sale of products constructed under the license, as well as providing after-sales services.
- Notably, these services are focused on meeting the needs of the Indian market and the specified application.
- This comprehensive collaboration ensures a seamless integration of various stages of production, quality assurance, and customer support for the licensed products in India.
As part of Rolls-Royce’s Power Systems unit, the MTU Series 4000 engines are a standout solution. Boasting a power output ranging from 746 to 4300 KW, these engines excel in high-power density and an impressive power-to-weight ratio.
Their compact design, coupled with robust mechanical and thermal stability, sets them apart.
Notably, these engines are user-friendly and easy to maintain, leading to low lifecycle costs.
This exceptional combination of features ensures that naval vessels, spanning from small patrol boats to frigates and large submarines, receive optimal propulsion.
The MTU Series 4000 engines emerge as a reliable and efficient choice for a diverse range of maritime applications.
The recent license agreement between Garden Reach Shipbuilders and Engineers (GRSE) and Rolls-Royce marks a continuation of their enduring partnership.
Going back to the mid-1980s, GRSE has actively participated in the line production, maintenance, repair, and overhaul of MTU engines.
This longstanding collaboration underscores the mutual trust and successful history shared by both entities.
The renewed commitment through this agreement reinforces their dedication to advancing technological capabilities in the production and maintenance of high-quality MTU engines, contributing to the robustness of naval vessels and maritime operations.
