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23. June 2026

Indonesia’s First Two Scorpene Evolved Submarines to Feature Advanced Missile Launch Capability
A recent report sparked concern among naval enthusiasts suggesting that Indonesia’s first two Scorpene Evolved submarines, set to be constructed domestically by PT PAL Indonesia in East Java, would not be equipped with missile launch capability from the outset. However, industry sources have since confirmed that this assertion is entirely unfounded.
The project aims to provide the Indonesian Navy (TNI AL) with a modern and capable submarine fleet, developed as part of a larger agreement between France and Indonesia, with Naval Group serving as the primary contractor.
According to sources familiar with the program, the ability to launch the MBDA SM39 anti-ship missile has been an integral part of the design from the very beginning. The SM39 is the submarine-launched variant of the Exocet anti-ship missile system, and its integration into the Scorpene Evolved submarines is seen as a key requirement by the Indonesian Navy.
The SM39 missile offers a range of benefits for Indonesia’s naval forces with a maximum range of over 100 kilometers. The missile can engage targets at sea and on coastal areas, making it an ideal asset for defending against surface threats.
PT PAL CEO, Kaharuddin Djenod, has confirmed that the initial report was incorrect stating that the missile integration aspect of the project has always been a core component. According to Djenod, PT PAL is committed to delivering high-quality submarines that meet the Indonesian Navy’s exacting standards, including advanced missile systems.
The inclusion of SM39 missiles in the Scorpene Evolved design aligns with one of Indonesia’s key strategic objectives for its submarine fleet: to project power deep into the region and deter potential threats. The ability to launch these missiles from submerged platforms provides a significant advantage, allowing Indonesian naval vessels to conduct anti-ship operations without being detected.
Furthermore, the Exocet SM39 missile system is seen as an essential component of Indonesia’s defense strategy, enabling the country to maintain its sovereignty in the face of regional security challenges. The capacity to launch these missiles will provide the Indonesian Navy with a robust deterrent capability, deterring potential aggressors and protecting vital national interests.
In addition to the military benefits, the Scorpene Evolved project also offers significant economic advantages for Indonesia. By constructing the submarines domestically, PT PAL aims to reduce dependence on foreign technology transfer and create jobs in the country’s shipbuilding industry. The project is expected to generate substantial revenue and stimulate economic growth in East Java.
Naval Group’s offer of the Scorpene Evolved design with full SM39 integration was previously confirmed by sources close to the negotiations. This development aligns with Indonesia’s requirements for its submarine fleet, which emphasizes stealth, agility, and advanced sensor capabilities.
The partnership between France and Indonesia has resulted in the development of a cutting-edge submarine design that meets the demands of both nations’ naval forces. The Scorpene Evolved submarines are set to undergo rigorous testing and evaluation before being handed over to the Indonesian Navy, ensuring their readiness for operational deployment.
In a rapidly changing regional security landscape, the Scorpene Evolved submarines are poised to play a vital role in supporting Indonesia’s national defense strategy with their advanced missile systems and stealth capabilities. These vessels will be instrumental in maintaining regional stability and deterring potential threats to Indonesian sovereignty.
The successful completion of this project marks an important milestone in Indonesia’s maritime security strategy, underscoring the country’s commitment to maintaining its sovereignty in the face of regional security challenges.
As PT PAL continues to work towards delivering these submarines, it remains essential for the company to ensure that its workforce receives adequate training and support to maintain the highest standards of quality and reliability. The successful delivery of these vessels will not only enhance Indonesia’s military capabilities but also contribute significantly to the country’s economic development and growth.
The Scorpene Evolved submarines are set to become a cornerstone of Indonesian naval power, supporting the country’s sovereignty and contributing to regional maritime security efforts. With their advanced missile systems and stealth capabilities, these vessels will be instrumental in maintaining regional stability and deterring potential threats to Indonesian sovereignty.
The partnership between France and Indonesia has resulted in the development of a cutting-edge submarine design that meets the demands of both nations’ naval forces. The Scorpene Evolved submarines are set to undergo rigorous testing and evaluation before being handed over to the Indonesian Navy, ensuring their readiness for operational deployment.
In a rapidly changing regional security landscape, these vessels are poised to play a vital role in supporting Indonesia’s national defense strategy with advanced missile systems and stealth capabilities. They will be instrumental in maintaining regional stability and deterring potential threats to Indonesian sovereignty.
The success of this project marks an important milestone in Indonesia’s maritime security strategy, underscoring the country’s commitment to maintaining its sovereignty in the face of regional security challenges.
In conclusion, Indonesia’s first two Scorpene Evolved submarines will feature advanced missile launch capabilities meeting the Indonesian Navy’s requirements for stealth, agility, and advanced sensor capabilities. The successful delivery of these vessels will not only enhance Indonesia’s military capabilities but also contribute significantly to the country’s economic development and growth.
The partnership between France and Indonesia has resulted in the development of a cutting-edge submarine design that meets the demands of both nations’ naval forces. With their advanced missile systems, stealth capabilities, and exceptional performance, the Scorpene Evolved submarines are set to become a cornerstone of Indonesian naval power supporting the country’s sovereignty and contributing to regional maritime security efforts.
As PT PAL continues to work towards delivering these submarines, it remains essential for the company to ensure that its workforce receives adequate training and support to maintain the highest standards of quality and reliability. The successful completion of this project will elevate Indonesia’s military capabilities and cement its position as a key player in regional maritime security efforts.
The Scorpene Evolved submarines are set to undergo rigorous testing and evaluation before being handed over to the Indonesian Navy, ensuring their readiness for operational deployment. In a rapidly changing regional security landscape, these vessels will play a critical role in supporting Indonesia’s national defense strategy with advanced missile systems and stealth capabilities.
With their advanced missile systems and stealth capabilities, the Scorpene Evolved submarines will be instrumental in maintaining regional stability and deterring potential threats to Indonesian sovereignty. As PT PAL continues to work towards delivering these submarines, it remains essential for the company to ensure that its workforce receives adequate training and support to maintain the highest standards of quality and reliability.
The partnership between France and Indonesia has resulted in the development of a cutting-edge submarine design that meets the demands of both nations’ naval forces. The Scorpene Evolved submarines are set to become a cornerstone of Indonesian naval power, supporting the country’s sovereignty and contributing to regional maritime security efforts.