Contract For 3 Additional Scorpene Submarines To Be Finalised By 2024 End; First Delivery By 2031

The Indian Navy is set to strengthen its underwater capabilities by acquiring three additional Scorpene-class diesel-electric submarines. A contract for these submarines is expected to be finalized by the end of 2024, and the first submarine is scheduled to be handed over to the Navy by 2031.

This development comes after the Naval Group and the Mazagon Dock (MDL) in Mumbai signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) on July 6, 2023, to collaborate on producing these three extra Scorpenes. The procurement process will begin shortly after obtaining the acceptance of necessity (AoN) from the Defence Acquisition Council (DAC) on July 13, 2023.

The upcoming submarines are anticipated to boast a higher indigenous content, thanks to incorporating the DRDO-developed AIP (Air Independent Propulsion) system. This cutting-edge technology will significantly enhance the submarines’ endurance capabilities, allowing them to stay submerged longer.

India’s journey with Scorpene-class submarines began in October 2005 when a contract was signed with the Naval Group for six submarines. The deal, valued at USD 3.75 billion, included technology transfer to the Mazagon Dock for domestic production. Over the years, the Indian Navy has commissioned several submarines, starting with INS Kalvari in December 2017, followed by subsequent ones.

In January 2023, the Navy welcomed its fifth submarine, INS Vagir, into its fleet. The sixth submarine, ‘Vagsheer,’ is undergoing rigorous trial phases and is expected to join the Navy’s ranks in early 2024.

Furthermore, in a unique collaboration, the French Naval Group is partnering with India’s DRDO to integrate the indigenous AIP module into the existing Scorpene submarines during their regular refit cycles. This integration process will commence with INS Kalvari and is projected to be completed by the end of 2024 or early 2025.

With these additional Scorpene-class submarines and the advanced AIP technology, the Indian Navy is poised to reinforce its maritime defence capabilities, ensuring greater security and preparedness in the Indian Ocean region.

Reference: The Hindu, Projects Today, Swarajya

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Source: Maritime Shipping News