The steel-cutting milestone marks the start of physical construction of the first of two Scorpène Evolved submarines planned for the Indonesian Navy. The programme is part of a strategic partnership between Indonesia and France involving the Ministry of Defense, PT PAL Indonesia and France’s Naval Group. According to PT PAL, the technology transfer covers hull outfitting, mechanical and machinery installation, electrical systems integration and weapons system assembly. PT PAL previously assembled the Nagapasa-class submarine KRI Alugoro with support from South Korea’s DSME, now Hanwha Ocean. The first Scorpène Evolved submarine is scheduled for delivery to the Indonesian Navy in 2032.