The Indian Navy has strengthened its future naval modernization plans by signing a ₹425 crore contract with Bharat Forge Limited (BFL) for the supply of 12 indigenous 1.25 MW Marine Gas Turbine Generators (MTGGs). While the primary objective is to replace the existing auxiliary power generation systems aboard the Kolkata-class destroyers, the new generators are also expected to support the integration of next-generation technologies, including Directed Energy Weapons (DEWs).
The agreement covers the design, manufacture, supply, and lifecycle support of the MTGGs, ensuring long-term operational reliability. Manufactured domestically, the generators represent a significant milestone in India’s efforts to reduce dependence on imported naval power-generation systems while strengthening indigenous defence manufacturing.
Modern warships rely on two separate power architectures. Propulsion power is generated by high-output gas turbines such as the LM2500, producing approximately 25–30 MW to drive the ship’s propulsion system. Electrical power, on the other hand, supports onboard mission systems including radars, sonars, combat management systems, electronic warfare suites, communication equipment, weapons, pumps, and other critical subsystems.
The newly contracted MTGGs are designed to enhance this electrical power architecture. Each generator will produce approximately 1.25 MW, replacing existing diesel-generator units that currently deliver around 1 MW. Compared with conventional diesel generators, gas turbine generators provide higher power density, reduced weight, and a more compact footprint while offering faster response to changing electrical loads.
These advantages are becoming increasingly important as naval platforms integrate more power-intensive combat systems. The upgraded generators will immediately support critical onboard equipment such as the MF-STAR multifunction radar, sonar systems, electronic warfare suites, communication networks, combat management systems, and other essential electronics aboard the Kolkata-class destroyers.
Beyond supporting existing systems, the additional electrical capacity provides valuable growth potential for future upgrades. Based on available information, the 12 MTGGs are expected to be distributed across the Navy’s three Kolkata-class destroyers, potentially providing each ship with nearly 5 MW of auxiliary electrical generation capacity.
One of the most significant future applications of this increased power reserve is the integration of Directed Energy Weapons. The Indian Navy has consistently expressed interest in deploying high-energy laser systems for missions including counter-drone operations, missile defence, and close-in ship protection. Unlike conventional weapons, laser systems require substantial and stable electrical power to generate and sustain high-energy beams.
Warships capable of generating several megawatts of surplus electrical power are better positioned to accommodate future laser weapons. With DRDO continuing to develop indigenous directed-energy technologies, naval integration is expected to become an important priority as these systems mature.
The enhanced power architecture could potentially support laser weapons in the 300–500 kW class, which are increasingly viewed as practical solutions against drones, loitering munitions, and small surface threats. As power-generation technology advances, even higher-energy systems may become feasible.
In addition to DEWs, the upgraded generators could also support more advanced radar systems, next-generation electronic warfare suites, enhanced communication networks, and future sensor architectures. As naval warfare becomes increasingly dependent on electronic superiority, electrical power is emerging as a critical enabler of combat capability.
The project also marks an important industrial milestone. Bharat Forge has indicated plans to expand its expertise beyond 1.25 MW generators into larger auxiliary gas turbines and eventually propulsion-class turbine technologies. Such capabilities would significantly strengthen India’s self-reliance in advanced naval and aerospace power-generation systems.
Production of the MTGGs is expected to take place in Visakhapatnam, reinforcing India’s indigenous defence manufacturing ecosystem. Besides reducing dependence on foreign suppliers, the programme will help develop critical expertise in one of the most technologically sophisticated segments of naval engineering.
