Mumbai: In a significant boost to India’s ambitious ₹60,000 crore project to develop six advanced conventional submarines, Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders Limited (MDL) has achieved a major milestone by successfully clearing crucial trials. This development positions MDL as a leading contender in the high-stakes competition to build the next generation of Indian submarines.
The project, part of India’s ongoing efforts to enhance its naval capabilities, involves the construction of six advanced submarines equipped with state-of-the-art Air Independent Propulsion (AIP) systems. These systems are designed to enable submarines to remain submerged for extended periods—up to two weeks—without the need to surface frequently to recharge their batteries. The enhanced operational capability offered by AIP systems is expected to significantly boost the Indian Navy’s underwater stealth and endurance.
The competitive landscape of the project features two primary contenders: Mumbai-based MDL and Larsen & Toubro (L&T). MDL has partnered with German defense firm ThyssenKrupp Marine Systems, while L&T has teamed up with Spanish naval shipbuilding company Navantia. Both partnerships have been working on meeting the stringent requirements of the Indian Navy.
According to defense sources, MDL has received confirmation from a Commodore-rank officer of the Indian Navy that they have met the necessary trial requirements. This development is a significant endorsement of MDL’s capabilities and its commitment to meeting the high standards set by the Indian Navy for this critical defense project.
In contrast, L&T has encountered challenges. The Navy’s submarine acquisition directorate reported deviations during L&T’s trials conducted in Cartagena, Spain, in June. The trials, which were part of a demonstration at a submarine base, highlighted certain issues that need to be addressed by L&T before they can progress further in the competition.
The submarine programme is currently in a crucial phase, navigating through various levels of scrutiny within the Defence Ministry and the highest echelons of the government. The project’s advancement is subject to further approvals and clearances at these higher levels.
The Indian government’s commitment to bolstering the naval fleet is evident from its broader strategic initiatives. The Indian Navy’s long-term submarine acquisition plan was revised post-2014 to include a fleet of 18 conventional submarines and six nuclear attack submarines. This plan reflects the need for a diverse and capable submarine force to meet evolving maritime security challenges.
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Project 75, which involves the construction of six Scorpène-class submarines, has been extended to include three additional boats. In parallel, Project 75 India is set to deliver six conventional submarines to be built at Indian shipyards. This initiative underscores the government’s focus on strengthening indigenous defense capabilities and reducing dependency on foreign technology.
Looking ahead, Project 76 is poised to further revolutionize India’s submarine fleet. This next-generation project aims to develop six conventional submarines with a complete Indian design and construction. Project 76 is a significant step towards achieving self-reliance in defense manufacturing and is a key priority on the Defence Ministry’s 100-day agenda. The project will be pursued jointly by the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) and the Indian Navy.
The P-75 India project has been in development for several years, and its stringent requirements have limited the participation of international firms that lacked the necessary capabilities. This has given an edge to domestic contenders like MDL, which have demonstrated their ability to meet the rigorous standards set by the Indian Navy.
The successful trial clearance by MDL marks a pivotal moment in the submarine programme, reflecting the growing expertise and competitiveness of Indian defense manufacturing. As the project progresses, MDL’s achievement not only enhances its standing in the defense sector but also reinforces India’s strategic vision for a robust and self-reliant naval force.
