This paper presents a control algorithm for a large salient-pole synchronous motor fed by a Load Commutated Inverter (LCI). Many papers have been presented in the past few years on the justification, design, and application of variable-speed drive. The focus of this paper is on high torque operation and the estimation of initial rotor position. The results of simulation indicate that it is possible to produce the maximum torque and estimate the initial rotor position.