In a significant move towards enhancing its naval capabilities, the Indian Navy is in the running for a Euro 5 billion deal that could see the acquisition of six diesel-electric stealth submarines from German defense giant ThyssenKrupp Marine Systems (TKMS). The announcement was made by TKMS CEO Oliver Burkhard, who emphasized the company’s intention to position India as a global hub for the construction of submarines and warships, driven by the rising demand for naval platforms amid escalating geopolitical tensions.
During an exclusive interview, Burkhard expressed confidence that securing the submarine deal would mark the beginning of a strong and enduring partnership between Germany and India, noting the bipartisan support in Germany for enhancing bilateral defense ties. He pointed out that the demand for naval assets is expected to increase significantly, particularly in light of ongoing global conflicts, positioning India as ideally suited for the role as a manufacturing hub for maritime defense.
The collaboration between TKMS and India’s state-run Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders Ltd (MDL) has been established to jointly pursue the Rs 44,000 crore submarine project, one of the most substantial ‘Make in India’ initiatives in recent times. They are vying for the opportunity against a competing consortium formed by Spanish defense contractor Navantia and Indian firm Larsen & Toubro Ltd. The Indian Ministry of Defence is currently evaluating the bidders as it prepares to finalize the winner of Project 75 India (P75-I).
Burkhard articulated a vision that transcends the immediate contract, indicating that the establishment of a submarine production hub in India is central to TKMS’s strategic plans. He underscored the company’s commitment to technology transfer, which would enable India not only to bolster its own naval strength but also to position itself as a supplier of submarines to other nations.
Highlighting the economic advantages, Burkhard claimed that constructing submarines in India would be more cost-effective compared to European counterparts. He stated that the TKMS intends to collaborate closely with MDL to produce submarines for both the Indian Navy and export to other countries.
Additionally, Burkhard stressed the importance of deeper defense cooperation between India and Germany, particularly in the context of maintaining peace and stability in the Indo-Pacific region, where China’s assertive actions have raised concerns. He noted that TKMS is a leader in the non-nuclear submarine sector, with many of its vessels equipped with air-independent propulsion systems, a crucial requirement articulated by the Indian Navy.
Citing the operational success of their submarines, Burkhard claimed that adopting their designs would significantly enhance India’s national security. He also remarked on the rising importance of India within European defense considerations, aligning with comments from Germany’s defense minister advocating for relations with India akin to those with Japan and Australia.
This submarine initiative comes in the backdrop of a strategic partnership established between India and Germany in 2000, which has been reinforced through ongoing inter-governmental consultations since 2011. The June 2021 approval for the procurement of six conventional submarines was a pivotal moment, setting the stage for enhanced local manufacturing and reduced reliance on imports under India’s strategic partnership model.
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