Larsen & Toubro has entered a strategic partnership with France-based Exail to develop and supply an advanced Unmanned Mine Counter-Measure (MCM) system for the Indian Navy.
Focus on autonomous mine detection and neutralisation
The joint system is designed to help detect, classify, identify, and neutralise naval mines using autonomous and remotely operated technologies. The aim is to allow safe, stand-off mine warfare operations without putting naval personnel at risk.
Role of L&T and Exail in the project
Under the agreement, L&T will act as the prime contractor and offer the system to shipyards involved in the Indian Navy’s planned programme for 12 Mine Counter Measure Vessels.
Exail will serve as the technology partner, providing its proven global mine countermeasure systems that are already in use with several navies worldwide.
Boost to India’s maritime defence capability
The collaboration is expected to significantly strengthen India’s mine warfare capabilities and improve maritime security. It also supports deeper Indo-French defence cooperation while contributing to the development of a stronger domestic naval manufacturing ecosystem.
The programme aligns with India’s Aatmanirbhar Bharat and Make in India initiatives, with a strong focus on local production and industrial participation.
Building indigenous defence ecosystem
Both companies highlighted the importance of combining global expertise with Indian manufacturing strength. L&T brings defence engineering experience, system integration capability, and lifecycle support, while Exail contributes decades of operational knowledge in unmanned maritime systems.
The partnership is also expected to support the local development of next-generation naval drones and autonomous maritime platforms in India.
