India's Naval Modernization: A Shift in Submarine Procurement Strategy
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Explore CNC Systems →India's Naval Modernization: A Shift in Submarine Procurement Strategy
The Ministry of Defence (MoD) has made a significant decision regarding the procurement of additional Kalvari-class submarines from French Naval Group. Initially, the MoD was considering procuring three more submarines, but due to budgetary constraints, the order has been reduced to two.
The MoD's decision is largely driven by the need to fund six Project-75I submarines from TKMS, a German company. The rising production costs and incorporation of newer technologies, such as the DRDO-developed AIP module and lithium-ion battery banks, have contributed to the reduced order.
The Indian Navy has already inducted six units of the INS Kalvari-class submarines into its fleet, and the additional two submarines will help replace older German submarines that are due to be retired by mid-decade. The newer submarines will also benefit from enhanced stealth and mission endurance, thanks to the incorporation of advanced technologies.
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Explore Carbon Fiber →The Indian Navy had demanded a new DRDO-developed AIP module, which would allow the submarine to remain submerged for several weeks without needing to surface or snorkel to recharge its batteries. This would significantly enhance its stealth and mission endurance in the Indian Ocean Region.
The DRDO-developed Combat Suite for the submarine was also to be incorporated into these additional submarines, replacing the French-developed Combat Suite. This would enable faster integration of Indian-made weapons into the submarine fleet.
Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders, a state-owned shipyard, is developing local battery technology for the submarine program. The plan is to replace batteries on all older Kalvari submarines in phases and incorporate newer AIP Modules during major refits.
France's Naval Group has pitched the "Scorpène Evolved" variant, which comes with improvements and newer features. However, the cost of each submarine unit could have been near two units that were previously procured from France.
India is also working on its own Project-76 submarine project, which aims to complete design work by the end of 2028. Once the design freeze happens, the project will move into construction, incorporating many of the shared technologies that will be seen on the newer Kalvari, including AIP modules, Lithium-Iron Phosphate (LFP) battery systems, and Combat Suite.
The MoD's decision to procure only two additional Kalvari-class submarines reflects the country's commitment to naval modernization and its focus on indigenous development. As India continues to strengthen its naval capabilities, the incorporation of advanced technologies and the development of local expertise will play a crucial role in enhancing its maritime security.
In conclusion, the MoD's decision to reduce the order of additional Kalvari-class submarines from three to two is a strategic move that aligns with India's naval modernization goals. The incorporation of advanced technologies and the development of local expertise will enable the Indian Navy to maintain its edge in the Indian Ocean Region and beyond.
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