The Naval Science & Technological Laboratory (NSTL), a Defence Research & Development Organisation (DRDO) laboratory, has transferred the production technology for a Gas Turbine Infrared Suppression System (GT IRSS) it has developed for GE Aerospace’s LM2500 propulsion system to Bharat Heavy Electricals Limited (BHEL).
Under the transfer of technology (ToT) agreement, BHEL will acquire the capability to fabricate, install and commission the GT IRSS for Indian naval vessels. The design of the system remains with NSTL and is not included in the transfer.
The Gas Turbine Infrared Suppression System has been developed to reduce the infrared signature of naval platforms by lowering the exhaust gas temperature of the LM2500 gas turbine propulsion system, thereby enhancing vessel survivability against infrared-guided threats.
BHEL announced in April 2026 that it had signed a Licensing Agreement for Transfer of Technology (LAToT) with NSTL to manufacture, install and commission the GT IRSS for naval applications.
The transfer will strengthen domestic industrial capability for producing and supporting infrared suppression systems for warships powered by the LM2500 gas turbine.
LM2500 gas turbines power the Indian Navy’s P17 and P17A frigates, as well as the IAC-1 Vikrant aircraft carrier.
