In a significant move, the Indian Navy has approved state-owned Mazagon Dock Limited (MDL) to build six advanced submarines at a projected cost of up to Rs 60,000 crore. This decision comes after the successful completion of trials for submarines under Project 75 India, according to defence sources.

The deal is seen as a critical step for India to strengthen its naval capabilities amid growing influence from China and Pakistan in the Indian Ocean Region. MDL, in collaboration with Germany's ThyssenKrupp, emerged victorious in the competition against Larsen & Toubro and Navantia.

The Indian government is prioritising the enhancement of public sector units like MDL to drive job creation and technology development. The new submarines will be equipped with an Air-Independent Propulsion (AIP) system, which allows them to stay submerged for extended periods, surpassing the capabilities of earlier models that lack AIP technology.

Project 75 India is focused on acquiring diesel-electric attack submarines that incorporate AIP technology, making these vessels larger and more sophisticated than the current fleet. These submarines are expected to play a crucial role in bolstering India’s maritime security and defence.

In parallel with Project 75 India, India's nuclear submarine program is also progressing. The country is on the verge of commissioning its second nuclear-powered ballistic missile submarine (SSBN), the INS Arighat. This submarine is India's second indigenously built SSBN and is currently undergoing the final stages of trials and upgrades as specified by the Indian Navy.

Sources indicate that the INS Arighat is likely to be officially commissioned into service within the next two months, further enhancing India's strategic maritime capabilities.

The development of both conventional and nuclear submarines is seen as a vital component of India's broader strategy to secure its interests in the Indian Ocean Region and maintain a robust defence posture against regional threats.

Image source: BS media