In a significant development in India’s defence acquisition landscape, Spain has expressed its willingness to provide complete air-independent propulsion (AIP) technology for the stealth submarines it is building for the Indian Navy.
Under the $5.27 billion Project-75 India (P-75I), also known as the New Submarine Construction Programme, Spain’s state-owned defence giant Navantia aims to offer the submarines at a competitive price compared to other contenders, including Germany’s Thyssenkrupp.
As part of its commitment to the Indian government’s Make in India initiative, Navantia entered into a teaming agreement with Larsen and Toubro (L&T) in July last year to manufacture the submarines locally. Now, Spain is set to dispatch its top defence official, Secretary of State for Defence Amparo Valcarce, to India for discussions with Indian counterparts on March 7 and 8.
According to sources familiar with the matter, the primary agenda of Valcarce’s visit will be discussions on the procurement of six advanced stealth submarines equipped with the latest AIP technology.
Spain has asserted that its submarines offer the most competitive pricing despite featuring cutting-edge AIP technology. These submarines are intended to replace the Indian Navy’s aging fleet of 11 diesel-electric powered submarines, which were inducted in the 1990s.
The ongoing negotiations hold strategic significance for both countries, with officials expressing optimism about positive outcomes post the parliamentary elections. Although talks around the deal may face delays due to India’s upcoming general elections scheduled for mid-year, the discussions have been progressing well.
Earlier discussions during the visit of Spanish Deputy Prime Minister Teresa Ribera to India highlighted the importance of the submarine deal in bilateral relations. The Ministry of Defence’s proposal to build next-generation submarines with advanced AIP technology aims to enhance India’s maritime capabilities significantly.
Navantia’s offering includes S-80 submarines with a displacement of 3,000 tonnes and a proven AIP system. The company is also considering exporting these submarines from India to other nations in the future, reflecting its long-term commitment to strategic partnerships in the region.
Navantia’s prior experience in India, including its involvement in the co-design and technology transfer for the Scorpene submarines built by Mazagon Dock Ltd., underscores its expertise and track record in collaborating with Indian defence entities.
With Spain’s offer of complete AIP technology transfer, the Indian Navy stands to gain access to cutting-edge capabilities, further strengthening India’s defence preparedness and self-reliance in naval operations.
In a spirited display of athleticism and camaraderie, the Chinar Corps organized the “Chinar Open Winter Games”. A two-day sporting extravaganza held from February 27 to 28 at the picturesque locale of Gulmarg in Kashmir.
The event, which concluded today, attracted a remarkable turnout of young sports enthusiasts from across the region, eager to showcase their skills and passion for various ski disciplines.
The Chinar Open Winter Games, an initiative spearheaded by the Indian Army, served as a platform to nurture and celebrate the burgeoning talent in Kashmir’s sports landscape.
With the majestic backdrop of Gulmarg’s snow-capped peaks, participants embraced the thrill of competition while fostering a sense of unity and sportsmanship.
The event witnessed fervent participation from aspiring athletes, with individuals from diverse backgrounds converging to test their mettle in a range of ski disciplines. From downhill skiing to slalom racing, the games offered a comprehensive showcase of winter sports, captivating both participants and spectators alike.
The Chinar Corps, through its unwavering commitment to promoting sports and outdoor activities in the region, extended a warm invitation to sports enthusiasts to partake in the Chinar Open Winter Games 2024.
Held at the High Altitude Warfare School in Gulmarg, the event symbolized the Indian Army’s dedication to fostering a culture of sportsmanship and physical fitness among Kashmir’s youth.
Amidst the thrill of competition, the Chinar Open Winter Games also served as a platform for nurturing talent and providing aspiring athletes with invaluable exposure and opportunities for growth.
Through mentorship and guidance from seasoned coaches and trainers, participants were able to hone their skills and refine their techniques, laying the foundation for future success in the realm of winter sports.
The resounding success of the Chinar Open Winter Games underscored the transformative power of sports in fostering unity, resilience, and community spirit. As athletes pushed their limits and embraced the spirit of friendly competition, they embodied the spirit of resilience and determination that defines the people of Kashmir.
In the spirit of inclusivity and celebration, the Chinar Corps reiterated its commitment to supporting and empowering Kashmir’s youth through initiatives like the Chinar Open Winter Games.
By harnessing the region’s rich sporting potential and providing a platform for talent to flourish, the Indian Army continues to play a pivotal role in shaping the future of sports in Kashmir and fostering a culture of excellence and achievement.
In a heartwarming ceremony that bridged the realms of sports and military honor, Admiral R Hari Kumar, Chief of Naval Staff (CNS), extended a special tribute to Mrs. Baig, the wife of Indian Navy veteran and renowned cricket coach M.R. Baig.
The felicitation took place in the distinguished presence of cricketing icons VVS Laxman and M.S.K Prasad, adding an extra layer of prestige to the event. As a fitting tribute to Baig’s illustrious career and lasting impact on Indian cricket, a book chronicling his life journey, titled “M.R. Baig – The Unsung Coach of Indian Cricket,” was unveiled by the CNS himself.
The ceremony, held on [date], served as a poignant recognition of Baig’s invaluable contributions to both the Indian Navy and the realm of cricket coaching. Mrs. Baig, representing her husband’s legacy, was honored for her unwavering support and sacrifices, which played an integral role in Baig’s journey as a cricket coach and a proud serviceman of the Indian Navy.
Admiral R Hari Kumar, in his address, lauded Baig’s exceptional commitment and dedication, highlighting his role not only as a cricket coach but also as a beacon of inspiration for countless individuals.
He underscored the significance of Baig’s dual identity as a Navy veteran and a legendary cricket coach, emphasizing the values of discipline, teamwork, and leadership that epitomized Baig’s ethos.
The presence of cricketing stalwarts VVS Laxman and M.S.K Prasad added a touch of star power to the event, symbolizing the widespread respect and admiration for Baig’s coaching acumen and mentorship.
Their participation underscored the profound impact Baig had on shaping the careers of aspiring cricketers and instilling in them the values of sportsmanship and perseverance.
The highlight of the ceremony was the unveiling of “M.R. Baig – The Unsung Coach of Indian Cricket,” a meticulously crafted tribute to Baig’s life and legacy. Authored by Cdr Y Hemanth Kumar, the book offers a compelling narrative that chronicles Baig’s journey from his early days in the Indian Navy to his remarkable tenure as a cricket coach.
It provides a rare glimpse into the untold stories and behind-the-scenes anecdotes that define Baig’s unparalleled contribution to Indian cricket.
The felicitation ceremony served as a poignant reminder of the profound impact individuals like M.R. Baig can have on shaping the trajectory of sports and inspiring future generations.
As the Indian Navy Chief and esteemed cricketing legends came together to honor his memory, it was a testament to the enduring legacy of Baig’s passion, dedication, and indomitable spirit.
In a bid to tackle the evolving challenges posed by Chemical, Biological, Radiological, and Nuclear (CBRN) threats, the Indian Army, in collaboration with the Centre for Land Warfare Studies (CLAWS), organized a seminal seminar titled “CBRN: Emerging Threats & Challenges.”
The event, held on 28th February 2024, brought together a consortium of distinguished voices from various sectors to deliberate on the pressing issues and chart a strategic roadmap for enhancing CBRN preparedness.
The seminar commenced with a keynote address delivered by Lieutenant General Tarun Kumar Aich, Deputy Chief of the Army Staff (Strategy). His insights set the tone for the discussions that followed, emphasizing the criticality of staying ahead of emerging threats and bolstering India’s readiness to counter CBRN challenges.
Eminent speakers representing the strategic community, academia, Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO), and National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) took the stage to share their perspectives.
They engaged in a comprehensive dialogue covering global developments, emerging threats, and the military implications thereof.
The discussions delved into various facets of CBRN preparedness, including threat assessment, detection capabilities, response mechanisms, and collaborative strategies. Participants analyzed recent advancements in CBRN technology and explored innovative approaches to mitigate potential risks.
Of particular significance was the focus on fostering synergy among stakeholders to enhance CBRN preparedness. The seminar underscored the importance of a cohesive and coordinated response mechanism involving government agencies, defense forces, research institutions, and civil society.
The event served as a platform for exchanging ideas, sharing best practices, and identifying areas for collective action.
By fostering dialogue and collaboration, the Indian Army and CLAWS aim to strengthen India’s resilience against CBRN threats and ensure the safety and security of the nation and its citizens.
The seminar concluded with a consensus on the need for sustained efforts to address evolving CBRN challenges effectively.
It was agreed that ongoing research, capacity building, and strategic planning are essential to stay ahead of emerging threats and safeguard national interests in an increasingly complex security landscape.
The Indian Military Academy (IMA) in Dehradun is a prestigious institution that shapes future leaders of the Indian Army. Among the many aspirants aiming to join this esteemed academy are the Gentleman Cadets (GCs), who undergo rigorous training to serve their country.
A significant aspect of their journey at the IMA is the financial support they receive in the form of pay and allowances. This article aims to provide a detailed overview of the pay and allowances entitled to Gentleman Cadets at the IMA, Dehradun.
Pay Structure for Gentleman Cadets
The pay structure for Gentleman Cadets at the IMA is designed to support them financially during their training period. After the implementation of the 7th Pay Commission, the stipend and allowances have been revised to offer better financial support to the cadets.
Direct Entry Cadets
For cadets entering through the Direct Entry scheme, the stipend is set at Rs 56,100 per month for the entire duration of their training at the IMA. This uniform stipend ensures that the cadets can focus on their training without financial worries.
Service Cadets
Cadets who are already serving in the military and are selected to join the IMA continue to draw the pay of their respective ranks. They are advised to bring their pay books as per AO No. 309/64 and are entitled to draw one month’s advance pay from their previous units according to AO 543/63. This arrangement ensures that service cadets transition smoothly into their training period without any financial hiccups.
Technical and University Entry Scheme Cadets
Cadets entering through the Technical Entry Scheme (TES) and the University Entry Scheme (UES) are entitled to a provisional issue of pay and allowances of Rs 56,100 per month during their training period. This pay will later be adjusted by the CDA(O) Pune upon their commission as Lieutenants. It’s important to note that for all intents and purposes, these cadets are treated as Gentleman Cadets during their training.
For UES entry cadets, there is a specific stipend of Rs 21,000 for the last year of their engineering course, following which they will receive the pay and allowance of a Lieutenant, which is Rs 56,100 per month plus Dearness Allowance (DA), during their training period at the IMA.
Additional Charges
Apart from the stipend, Gentleman Cadets are required to pay for their messing, accommodation, and allied services. The current charge for these services is Rs 486 per month, although this amount is subject to change. Cadets also need to manage their personal expenses from the stipend provided.
Conclusion
The financial support system for Gentleman Cadets at the Indian Military Academy, Dehradun, is structured to ensure that cadets can dedicate themselves to their training without financial burdens. The stipend and allowances are designed to cover their basic needs and expenses, allowing them to focus on becoming future leaders of the Indian Army. With a clear understanding of their financial entitlements, cadets can embark on their journey at the IMA with confidence and determination.
In a spirited observance of National Science Day on February 28, 2024, the Defence Research & Development Organisation (DRDO) conducted a series of enlightening activities across its laboratories and establishments.
The celebrations included lectures, orations, and open-house sessions to mark the day dedicated to the discovery of the ‘Raman Effect’ by Sir Chandrasekhara Venkata Raman in 1928.
At a special function organized by the Defence Science Forum (DSF) at DRDO Bhawan in New Delhi, Dr Samir V Kamat, Secretary Department of Defence R&D and Chairman DRDO, presided over the event. Prof. Ajay Kumar Sood, the Principal Scientific Advisor to the Government of India, graced the occasion as the Chief Guest.
The theme for this year’s National Science Day aligns with the Prime Minister’s vision to transform the nation, known as Viksit Bharat. Chairman DRDO highlighted the significance of the theme and greeted the scientific community.
Prof. Ajay Kumar Sood delivered a keynote address on ‘Cracking an age-old thermodynamic puzzle in micro heat engines.’ Dr. MA Maluk Mohamed, Co-founder and VP Research at M/s Twin Health, Chennai, presented a lecture on ‘Precision health management using digital twin,’ shedding light on the benefits for individuals with chronic Metabolic Diseases.
A total of 39 oration papers were submitted from various DRDO labs and establishments, with three papers selected for presentation. Scientists from ARDE Pune, CHESS Hyderabad, and CFEES Delhi delivered talks on their respective areas of work and were honored during the event.
The DRDO song was released by Chairman DRDO, and awards were presented to the lyrics writer and music composer. Prof. Ajay Kumar Sood felicitated the awardees.
Additionally, a monograph authored by Dr. AK Chakrabarti, Ex Director DRDL Hyderabad, titled “Innovative practices in product development through the eyes of product developer,” was released by PSA.
The Defence Science Forum (DSF) serves as a platform for DRDO scientists to engage in interdisciplinary interactions, fostering collaboration, idea exchange, and feasibility planning for projects requiring expert opinions. The National Science Day celebrations reflected DRDO’s commitment to promoting innovation, scientific temper, and a positive research culture.
The Indian Navy achieved another significant milestone with the launch of the ‘Ammunition Cum Torpedo Cum Missile Barge, LSAM 18’, marking the fourth barge of the 11 x ACTCM Barge Project.
The launch ceremony, held on 28th February 2024, was presided over by Commodore Shirish Dube, Directorate of Ship Production, showcasing the Navy’s commitment to bolstering its maritime capabilities.
Constructed by the MSME Shipyard, M/s Suryadipta Projects Pvt Ltd, Thane, the ACTCM Barge project is a testament to India’s indigenous shipbuilding capabilities.
The contract for building 11 X ACTCM Barge was inked between the Ministry of Defence and M/s Suryadipta Projects Pvt Ltd on 5th March 2021, marking a significant step towards enhancing the Indian Navy’s operational readiness.
The LSAM 18 barge, along with its counterparts, will play a crucial role in supporting the operational commitments of the Indian Navy. These barges will facilitate the transportation, embarkation, and disembarkation of articles and ammunition to IN ships, both alongside jetties and at outer harbors, thereby bolstering the Navy’s logistical capabilities.
Designed and built indigenously under the relevant Naval Rules and Regulations of the Indian Register of Shipping, these barges represent a proud achievement of the ‘Make in India’ initiative of the Government of India.
The meticulous design and construction process involved rigorous model testing at the Naval Science and Technological Laboratory, Visakhapatnam, ensuring adherence to the highest standards of quality and safety.
The launch of LSAM 18 and the progress of the ACTCM Barge Project underscore India’s commitment to self-reliance in defense production and the enhancement of its maritime infrastructure.
By leveraging indigenous capabilities and expertise, the Indian Navy continues to strengthen its fleet, ensuring readiness to safeguard the nation’s maritime interests in the years to come.
General Pierre Schill, Chief of Army Staff of the French Army, embarked on a significant visit to the Sapta Shakti Command, a pivotal moment that underscored the strengthening ties between the French and Indian armed forces.
Arriving at the command, he was warmly received by Lieutenant General Dhiraj Seth, the Army Commander of Sapta Shakti Command.
During his visit, General Pierre Schill engaged in insightful discussions and exchanges with Lt Gen Dhiraj Seth and other officers of the Sapta Shakti Command.
The interaction provided an invaluable opportunity for both sides to share their perspectives, experiences, and expertise on a wide range of strategic and operational matters.
The visit of General Pierre Schill to the Sapta Shakti Command holds immense significance in the context of bolstering the strategic relations between France and India.
It served as a testament to the growing cooperation and mutual respect between the two nations, particularly in the realm of defence and security.
Throughout the engagement, General Pierre Schill shared valuable insights gleaned from his extensive experience in military leadership. His perspectives on diverse issues contributed to a deeper understanding and collaboration between the French and Indian military establishments.
The discussions encompassed various aspects of defence cooperation, including joint training exercises, information sharing mechanisms, and technology collaboration.
Both sides explored opportunities for enhanced cooperation in areas such as counterterrorism, maritime security, and peacekeeping operations.
The visit of General Pierre Schill to the Sapta Shakti Command exemplified the commitment of France and India to strengthening their strategic partnership and promoting regional stability.
It underscored the shared values and common interests that bind the two nations together, paving the way for deeper cooperation and collaboration in the future.
In the vast expanses of the ocean, submarines represent the apex of underwater strategic might, a testament to a nation’s prowess in maritime warfare. As crucial assets of the Indian Navy, submarines of Indian Navy play a pivotal role in safeguarding our nation’s interests, offering us the ability to operate with stealth in enemy waters and strike with precision.
We understand the gravity these submerged guardians hold, capable of altering the dynamics of naval engagements and affirming India’s position as a formidable maritime power.
We take immense pride in the growth and capabilities of our submarine fleet, reflecting our commitment to defending our waters while ambitiously driving towards self-reliance in defense technologies. This article is dedicated to unveiling the expanse and might of the entire fleet of Indian Navy submarines, exploring the historical evolutions, and shedding light on the sophisticated Shishumar, Kalvari, and Arihant-class submarines.
As we steer through the waves of this discussion, we also anticipate the future trajectories of indigenous submarine development, echoing the aspirations of the Indian Navy’s Maritime Capability Perspective Plan.
Historical Evolution of Indian Submarine Fleet
The genesis of our submarine fleet, a cornerstone of the Indian Navy’s offensive and defensive strategies, can be traced back to the early 1960s. We embraced the strategic significance of submarines and initiated our journey with the acquisition of Foxtrot-class submarines from the Soviet Union. This pivotal move marked our foray into the realm of underwater warfare, laying the groundwork for future advancements.
Early Acquisitions and Indigenous Developments:
1960s: Acquisition of Foxtrot-class submarines from the Soviet Union.
1990s: Commissioning of India’s first indigenous submarines, INS Shalki and INS Shankul, marking a significant leap towards self-reliance in submarine technology.
Our aspirations have always been to modernize and enhance our capabilities. The introduction of Scorpene-class submarines, also known as Kalvari-class, under the collaboration with France’s Naval Group, represents our enduring efforts to bolster our underwater warfare capabilities. The first of these advanced submarines was commissioned in 2017, with a total of six planned for induction by 2023.
Modernization and Expansion:
2017: Commissioning of the first Scorpene-class submarine.
By 2023: Induction of six Scorpene-class submarines, a testament to our commitment to fortifying our maritime security.
In our pursuit of a formidable and versatile fleet, we aim to acquire a mix of nuclear-powered attack submarines (SSNs) and nuclear-powered ballistic missile submarines (SSBNs). These acquisitions are pivotal in maintaining a strategic edge in the region. However, the path has not been without its challenges, including budget constraints and initial procurement delays due to reluctance from the USA and Britain.
Challenges and Fleet Composition:
Financial constraints and procurement challenges have historically impacted fleet expansion.
Current Fleet: Operates one nuclear-powered submarine (Chakra), two nuclear-powered ballistic missile submarines (Arihant), and diesel-electric submarines across three classes – Kalvari, Shishumar, and Sindhughosh.
In our journey, we have bid farewell to 12 submarines, including 2 nuclear-powered and 10 diesel-electric, recognizing their service to our nation. As we continue to safeguard our waters, the submarines of the Indian Navy are not just vessels but embodiments of our naval aspirations and the guardians of our maritime sovereignty.
Shishumar-Class Submarines
We, the stewards of the Indian Navy’s underwater fleet, recognize the Shishumar-Class submarines as the vanguards of our diesel-electric attack capabilities. These formidable vessels, rooted in West German design, are the embodiment of our tactical acumen in the depths of the oceans. With four active units—INS Shishumar (S44), INS Shankush (S45), INS Shalki (S46), and INS Shankul (S47)—each submarine in India bears the mark of our commitment to maritime excellence.
Design and Construction:
Origin: West German HDW Type 209 design.
Builders: Howaldtswerke-Deutsche Werft (HDW) and Mazagon Dock Limited (MDL).
Commissioning: First two units in Germany, followed by two in India.
The Shishumar-Class, with a submerged displacement of 1,850 tons, stretches 64.4 meters in length and commands the seas with a 22-knot top speed when submerged. Our Indian submarine fleet prides itself on the Shishumar-Class’s endurance, boasting an 8,000 nautical mile range at a steady 8 knots, ensuring our presence is felt across vast maritime expanses.
Propulsion: 4 × MTU diesel-electric motors, 1 × Siemens motor.
Speed and Range: 22 knots (submerged), 8,000 nm at 8 knots.
Armaments: Torpedoes, mines, and Harpoon missiles (on S46 and S47).
The Shishumar-Class has undergone a rigorous mid-life upgrade, enhancing their lethality and extending their service life by up to 15 years, a testament to our relentless pursuit of operational longevity and efficiency. This upgrade, a $151 million endeavor, includes the integration of the Boeing UGM-84L Harpoon Block II missiles on INS Shankush and INS Shalki, and a comprehensive modernization of combat and sensor systems by Atlas Elektronik.
Mid-Life Upgrade:
Budget: $151 million for system maintenance and new equipment.
Upgrades: Harpoon missile systems and modernized combat systems.
Extended Service: Operational life increased by 10-15 years.
Our Shishumar-Class submarines have demonstrated their prowess in various naval exercises, reinforcing their status as critical assets among India submarines. As we continue to strengthen our underwater fleet, these submarines remain at the forefront, safeguarding our waters and upholding the might of Indian Navy submarines.
Kalvari-Class Submarines
In the echelons of our underwater defense, the Kalvari-class submarines stand as a distinguished fleet within the Indian Navy submarines. As a testament to the Indo-French strategic partnership, these diesel-electric attack submarines, also known as Project-75, represent a significant stride in our maritime combat capabilities. The collaboration has yielded a formidable class of submarines—Vagir, Kalvari, Khanderi, Karanj, Vela, and Vagsheer—each named with a resonant heritage and purpose.
Design Excellence and Specifications:
Origin: French Scorpène-class design by Naval Group.
Dimensions: Length – 220 feet, Height – 40 feet.
Speed: 11 knots surfaced, 20 knots submerged.
Endurance: Approximately 50 days, showcasing remarkable operational sustainability.
Our submarine in India, the Kalvari-class, is equipped with cutting-edge surveillance and intelligence-gathering systems, enhancing our tactical prowess. These submarines, with their sleek dimensions, are engineered for stealth and agility, capable of launching an array of torpedoes and missiles.
Armament and Capabilities:
Torpedo Tubes: Six 533 mm tubes.
Weaponry: A combination of 18 SUT torpedoes and SM39 Exocet missiles or 30 mines.
Crew: 8 officers and 35 sailors, a testament to our disciplined and skilled naval personnel.
With INS Kalvari (S21) commissioned in 2017 and the recent induction of INS Vagir (S25) in 2023, these submarines of the Indian Navy have bolstered our maritime security, reflecting India’s commitment to a secure and self-reliant defense framework. The Kalvari-class is not just a fleet but a symbol of our naval ambition and the guardians of our nation’s maritime sovereignty.
Arihant-Class Submarines
In the realm of strategic deterrence, our Arihant-Class submarines ballistic missile submarines stand as the pillars of India’s underwater nuclear capability. These indigenously built SSBNs are a crowning achievement of the Indian Navy, symbolizing our unwavering commitment to national security and technological prowess.
Indigenous Development and Strategic Might:
The Advanced Technology Vessel (ATV) project, a cornerstone of our defense innovation, has successfully birthed the Arihant-Class, with INS Arihant commissioned in 2016, marking a new era for submarines of Indian Navy.
Our submarine in India, specifically the Arihant-Class, is a series of five planned boats, meticulously constructed at the Ship Building Center, Visakhapatnam, a testament to our self-reliance in defense technologies.
Enhanced Capabilities and Armaments:
Each submarine in this class is a fortress of might, armed with K-15 Sagarika missiles and the more formidable K-4 missiles, with ranges of 750 km and 3,500 km respectively, fortifying our second-strike capabilities.
The third vessel, S4, surpasses its predecessors in size and strength, capable of housing eight K-4 or 24 K-15 SLBMs, a significant leap in our maritime deterrent force.
Fleet Expansion and Future Outlook:
Presently, the Indian submarine fleet includes two operational SSBNs, INS Arihant and INS Arighat, with a displacement of 6,000 tonnes each.
In the pipeline, we have the S4 and the S4 ‘star’, each surpassing the Arihant-class by over 1,000 tonnes, with expected launches by 2020 and 2022, solidifying the formidable stature of indian navy submarines.
Our Arihant-Class submarines are not merely vessels; they are the guardians of our nation’s second-strike capability, ensuring that our nuclear deterrent remains invincible in the face of adversity. As we continue to expand our underwater fleet, these submarines of Indian Navy stand as unwavering sentinels of peace and stability in the region.
Future Developments and Acquisitions
As we look toward the horizon, our Indian Navy submarines are set for a transformative journey with Project 75I, a pivotal initiative aimed at augmenting our underwater combat capabilities. This ambitious project underscores our commitment to fortify the submarines of the Indian Navy with six cutting-edge submarines, each equipped with advanced diesel-electric propulsion and pioneering air-independent propulsion (AIP) systems, which promise to significantly enhance underwater endurance and stealth.
Project 75I Highlights:
Acquisition of six advanced submarines with diesel-electric and AIP systems.
Emphasis on greater underwater endurance and stealth capabilities.
Our aspirations for a formidable submarine in India have drawn the attention of international contenders, with Germany’s ThyssenKrupp Marine Systems and Spain’s Navantia emerging as potential partners in this strategic endeavor. Spain, in particular, has made a compelling case by offering full technology transfer and the most competitive pricing for the $5-billion deal, positioning them as a strong frontrunner.
International Collaboration Prospects:
Germany and Spain as potential partners for Project 75I.
Spain’s offer includes full technology transfer and the lowest bid.
Navantia’s proposed S-80 submarines, boasting a displacement of 3,000 tonnes and a proven AIP system, are set to be manufactured in India, in line with the Make in India program, through a teaming agreement with Larsen & Toubro (L&T). This partnership not only elevates our indigenous manufacturing capabilities but also aligns with our strategic vision of self-reliance in defense.
Make in India Initiative:
Navantia’s S-80 submarines to be manufactured in India.
Collaboration with L&T reflects our push for self-reliance in defense manufacturing.
Our roadmap for the Indian Navy’s maritime might extends beyond submarines, encompassing the acquisition of eight next-generation corvettes, nine additional submarines, five survey vessels, and two multi-purpose vessels. Despite the challenges posed by delays in Project-75-India, our resolve remains unwavering. The planned construction of a third aircraft carrier, seven 6,670-tonne stealth frigates under Project-17A, and the procurement of 12 Sukhoi-30 MKI fighter jets, collectively valued at Rs 45,000 crore, are monumental steps in our defense strategy. Furthermore, the completion of Project Varsha’s first phase by 2022 will see our SSBN fleet securely housed at Rambilli. Our vision encapsulates the acquisition of 10 nuclear submarines and 9 diesel-electric submarines, ensuring that India submarines continue to be a potent force in safeguarding our nation’s maritime sovereignty.
Conclusion
The evolution and advancements of the Indian Navy’s submarine fleet, as discussed, are a testament to India’s strategic foresight and determination to secure its maritime boundaries. Our exploration through the historical development, capabilities, and future projects of vessels like the Shishumar, Kalvari, and Arihant-class submarines reflects a clear trajectory towards a robust underwater warfare force. This commitment to indigenous development and strategic partnerships underscores the Navy’s dedication to maintaining sovereignty and peace in the region.
Looking ahead, the drive for self-reliance and modernization continues to shape the Indian Navy’s submarine program. The emphasis on Project 75I and international collaborations signals a future where technological excellence and enhanced capabilities will fortify our maritime defense. These vessels are not just components of naval power, but guardians of our blue waters, integral to India’s defense narrative and its stature on the global maritime stage.
FAQs
1. How many submarines does the Indian Navy currently have?
The Indian Navy’s fleet includes two nuclear-powered ballistic missile submarines, 16 conventionally powered attack submarines.
2. Can you explain what Project 75 is?
Project 75 is a key submarine procurement initiative of the Indian Navy, focusing on the design and construction of six advanced Scorpene-class conventional submarines.
3. What is the largest submarine in the Indian Navy’s arsenal?
The largest submarine in the Indian Navy’s arsenal is the INS Arihant, which belongs to the Arihant class of ballistic missile submarines (SSBNs).Â
4. What is the latest addition to the Indian Navy’s submarine fleet?
The latest addition to the Indian Navy’s submarine fleet is the INS Vagsheer, the sixth and final Kalvari-class Scorpene submarine. This submarine was built under Project 75 and is set to be delivered in March 2024.
Defence Secretary Shri Giridhar Aramane recently co-chaired a significant milestone in bilateral relations as he led the India-Germany High Defence Committee (HDC) meeting in Berlin on February 27, 2024.
Joining forces with Mr. Benedikt Zimmer, the State Secretary of the German Ministry of Defence, the meeting marked a pivotal moment in advancing the robust Strategic Partnership between India and Germany, particularly in the realm of defence.
During the discussions, a wide array of bilateral security and defence matters were tabled, underscoring the shared commitment to fortifying defence cooperation between the two nations.
Of paramount importance was the mutual interest in elevating defence collaboration to new heights, with an emphasis on joint exercises in the Indo-Pacific region and potential defence industrial ventures.
Both sides stressed the significance of forging closer ties between their defence industries, with a special focus on fostering collaboration in high technology within the defence sector.
The HDC meeting also provided a platform to deliberate on the prevailing regional security landscape, allowing for an exchange of perspectives on pertinent security challenges.
Moreover, it served as an opportunity to build upon the momentum generated during German Federal Minister of Defence Mr. Boris Pistorius’s visit to India in 2023, reaffirming the commitment to sustained engagement and cooperation between the two nations.
Following the HDC meeting, Shri Giridhar Aramane engaged with the prestigious German Institute of International and Security Affairs (Stiftung Wissenschaft und Politik – SWP) in Berlin, further enriching the dialogue on strategic and security-related matters.
This interaction not only bolstered bilateral understanding but also paved the way for enhanced collaboration in addressing global security challenges.
Overall, the HDC meeting and subsequent engagements underscored the deep-rooted ties and shared commitment between India and Germany towards fostering peace, stability, and prosperity, not only within their respective regions but also on the global stage.
