India Boosts Submarine Fleet: Nine New Conventional Submarines Planned in First Phase
Introduction
India is significantly enhancing its underwater combat capabilities by planning the acquisition of nine new conventional diesel-electric submarines in the initial phase of a comprehensive, two-decade-long modernization effort. This strategic move addresses a critical need to counter growing regional naval power and maintain a formidable presence in the Indian Ocean.
Deep Dive into India’s Submarine Acquisition Plans
India’s defence establishment has made a decisive move to bolster its submarine fleet, with plans now set for the acquisition of nine new conventional diesel-electric submarines. This marks an increase from the initially discussed six submarines under Project 75(I), indicating a more ambitious approach to strengthening India’s underwater deterrence.
Project 75(I) and Subsequent Acquisitions
The first phase of this ambitious plan will see the procurement of six state-of-the-art conventional submarines under Project 75(I). These submarines are slated to feature advanced Air Independent Propulsion (AIP) systems, significantly enhancing their underwater endurance and stealth capabilities. Following this initial procurement, the government has decided to add three more conventional submarines to the order. While the specific make and builder for these additional three submarines are yet to be finalized, their inclusion underscores the urgency and scale of India’s submarine modernization drive.
Addressing a Shrinking Fleet and Regional Dynamics
This strategic expansion is driven by the pressing need to address a gradually shrinking conventional submarine fleet. With several of the Navy’s current submarines nearing the end of their operational life in the late 2030s, a proactive approach is essential. Furthermore, the rapid expansion of submarine capabilities by neighbouring nations, particularly Pakistan, which is enhancing its submarine strength, and China, with its vast and growing submarine fleet, necessitates a robust response to maintain regional maritime security and India’s strategic advantage.
Project 75(I) Modalities and Partnerships
The contract for Project 75(I) is currently being finalized, with an aim to ink the deal later this year, provided all negotiations proceed smoothly. Under this crucial project, six advanced conventional submarines equipped with AIP systems will be built by the state-run Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders Limited (MDL). This will be achieved through a technology and design transfer agreement with German shipbuilder Thyssenkrupp Marine Systems (TKMS). The contract will encompass both commercial agreements between the Ministry of Defence, MDL, and TKMS, as well as a crucial government-to-government arrangement between India and Germany.
The Second Phase: Project 76 and Indigenous Design
Looking beyond the immediate first phase, India is also charting a course for Project 76. This subsequent phase is envisioned to involve the construction of at least six more conventional submarines. A key feature of Project 76 will be its emphasis on indigenous design and a high degree of indigenization, aiming to foster greater self-reliance in submarine manufacturing and enhance the nation’s defence industrial base. The technological and industrial expertise cultivated through Project 75(I) is expected to serve as a strong foundation for the ambitious goals of Project 76.
Exploring Additional Scorpene Submarines
In the interim, the Indian Navy had previously proposed acquiring three additional Scorpene-class submarines as a stop-gap measure, given the potential for delays in the Project 75(I) timeline. This proposal, while facing challenges related to price negotiations and eventually losing some momentum, remains under formal consideration. The rationale behind considering these additional Scorpenes is rooted in the concern over maintaining adequate submarine force levels in the coming years, especially as older vessels are retired.
Enhancing Capabilities: The Next-Generation Scorpene
The proposed additional Scorpene submarines would represent a significant upgrade over the existing fleet. These would be larger, boasting nearly double the mission endurance due to expanded accommodation, greater storage capacity for provisions and supplies, and enhanced fuel and sanitary reserves. Furthermore, these advanced submarines would be capable of carrying more than twice the weapon load of their predecessors, with built-in growth margins for future weapon system integration, subject to compatibility with existing launch systems.
Strategic Importance Amidst Regional Naval Buildup
The strategic imperative behind this comprehensive submarine acquisition plan is amplified by the ongoing naval expansion of neighbouring countries. China continues to rapidly increase its submarine fleet, while Pakistan is set to induct several Chinese-origin submarines in the near future. In this context, planners increasingly believe that an acquisition of only six new conventional submarines would be insufficient to maintain India’s underwater superiority and strategic deterrence in the crucial Indian Ocean Region over the long term. The planned expansion aims to ensure a sustained technological edge and a formidable presence.
Building an Indigenous Submarine Ecosystem
The Project 75(I) programme is designed not just to acquire submarines but also to cultivate a robust submarine-building ecosystem within India. Officials highlight that this initiative will involve major private sector companies alongside Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) and smaller suppliers. This collaborative approach is crucial for developing the necessary skills, infrastructure, and supply chains that will not only support the current projects but also be instrumental in achieving the high indigenisation goals of future projects like Project 76.
The Advantage of TKMS Partnership for Future Projects
Sources suggest that the current partnership between TKMS and MDL holds a distinct advantage for India’s long-term submarine development. The technology, industrial capabilities, and design expertise that will be generated and honed through Project 75(I) are expected to directly contribute to the development and construction of submarines under Project 76. This synergy aims to accelerate India’s journey towards designing and building its own advanced conventional submarines with a high degree of indigenous content.
Conclusion
India’s decision to increase its planned submarine acquisition to nine in the first phase signifies a proactive and robust strategy to bolster its naval strength. This multi-pronged approach, encompassing both imported technology and a future focus on indigenous design, is crucial for maintaining maritime security and strategic dominance in the evolving geopolitical landscape of the Indian Ocean Region.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the planned number of new conventional submarines in the first phase of India’s acquisition?
India plans to acquire nine new conventional diesel-electric submarines in the first phase.
What is Project 75(I)?
Project 75(I) is a program under which India will acquire six conventional submarines equipped with Air Independent Propulsion (AIP) systems, built by MDL in collaboration with a foreign partner.
Which foreign company is collaborating with MDL for Project 75(I)?
Thyssenkrupp Marine Systems (TKMS) from Germany is collaborating with Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders Limited (MDL) for Project 75(I).
What is the primary reason for this submarine acquisition boost?
The acquisition is driven by the need to address a shrinking conventional submarine fleet and counter the growing submarine capabilities of neighbouring countries like China and Pakistan.
What is Project 76?
Project 76 is the planned second phase for building at least six more conventional submarines with a focus on Indian design and high indigenous content.
What are the proposed enhancements for the additional Scorpene-class submarines?
The proposed additional Scorpenes would be larger, have nearly double the mission endurance, and carry more than twice the weapon load of the current Scorpene fleet.
What percentage of indigenous content is expected in the Project 75(I) submarines?
The first submarine is expected to have 45 percent indigenous content, rising to 60 percent by the sixth one.
Why is indigenous design emphasized for Project 76?
Project 76 aims to foster greater self-reliance in submarine manufacturing and build upon the technological expertise gained from earlier projects.
How does India’s plan compare to China’s submarine strength?
China currently operates an estimated 65 submarines, significantly outpacing India’s current and planned acquisitions, highlighting the scale of the challenge.
What is the significance of Air Independent Propulsion (AIP) for these new submarines?
AIP systems significantly enhance a submarine’s stealth by allowing it to remain submerged for longer durations without needing to surface for air to recharge its batteries.
