INDONESIAN firm PT PAL signed a worth 1.18 Billion Euro contract to purchase two new submarines from French company Naval Group.
The Scorpene submarines will be built in Indonesia and the technology will be shipped from France.
The 72-meter submarines will have six launch pads, a capacity of 18 torpedoes and missiles, 12-day underwater autonomy, and can accommodate 31 crew members.
It will also be equipped with lithium-ion batteries that will allow the vessel more efficient energy, a decreased snorkeling rate, and a reduced charging time.
The technology will also make Indonesia the first country to buy a Scorpene submarine equipped with lithium-ion batteries.
French weapons manufacturer Nexter Defense System also expressed interest in a long-term partnership with Indonesia.
The contracts were signed in light of warming relations between France and Indonesia, wherein both countries supported each other in international forums.
