Saft, a subsidiary of TotalEnergies, has secured a contract from Naval Group to supply lithium-ion battery systems for the Barracuda and Scorpene submarine families.
The batteries will equip future submarine programs, replacing conventional lead-acid systems.
Saft said the lithium-ion technology provides greater energy density, extending underwater endurance while meeting military requirements for safety and reliability.
The contract builds on several years of collaboration between the two companies.
Saft manufactures the battery systems and their electrochemical cells in-house, covering the entire production chain.
“Advanced battery technology is now a defining factor in submarine performance,” stated Cedric Duclos, Chief Executive Officer of Saft.
“Our Li-ion systems set a new standard in energy density, safety, and reliability, positioning Saft at the heart of next-generation naval defense programs. This is also a clear step forward for European technological sovereignty.”
Barracuda and Scorpene Programs
The contract comes as Naval Group continues to advance production across its submarine portfolio.
Earlier this month, the company delivered the De Grasse, the fourth Barracuda-class nuclear-powered attack submarine, to the French Navy.
The submarine was handed over following sea trials and forms part of Paris’ long-running program to replace the aging Rubis-class fleet.
Naval Group said construction of the vessel incorporated lessons learned from earlier submarines in the class to address evolving operational requirements.
The agreement also follows progress on Naval Group’s international submarine programs.
In June, the French firm began construction of the first two Evolved Scorpene-class submarines for the Indonesian Navy at PT PAL’s shipyard in Surabaya, eastern Java.
The program includes technology transfer to Indonesia, with local engineers receiving training in France on submarine construction, engineering, and quality assurance.
