India's Next-Gen Torpedo: A Game-Changer for Submarine Warfare

India's Next-Gen Torpedo: A Game-Changer for Submarine Warfare\n\nThe Indian Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) is gearing up for the first trials of its Electric Heavyweight Torpedo (EHWT), also known as the Takshak Torpedo. The trials, which are expected to take place in the coming months, will be conducted from a Kalvari-class submarine.\n\nThe Takshak Torpedo is a wire-guided heavyweight torpedo that uses a fibre-optic wire and RLG-INS + GPS/NavIC guidance system. The torpedo will exit from the submarine's torpedo tube while on the surface, testing its self-propulsion and guidance systems.\n\nThe trials will be a significant milestone for the Indian Navy, as the Takshak Torpedo is expected to be a game-changer for submarine warfare. The torpedo's performance will be crucial for the Indian Navy's future submarine operations, and its success will pave the way for the production of the torpedo.\n\nThe Indian Navy has been evaluating various torpedoes over the years, including the Italian Black Shark. However, the AgustaWestland bribery scandal put all Finmeccanica companies under a shadow, and the deal was formally cancelled in 2016.\n\nA decade of RFIs followed, until February 2024's DAC approval for 48 torpedoes as an interim measure finally converted into a ₹1,896 crore contract with WASS on 30 December 2025 for 48 Black Shark Advanced torpedoes.\n\nThe Takshak EHWT will be longer than the Black Shark Advanced and will use its Fibre-optic wire + autonomous homing fallback; RLG-INS + GPS/NavIC for guidance. The range of the Takshak EHWT has not been officially disclosed by the DRDO, but it is expected to be over 50km.\n\nThe Indian Navy might have a requirement for 400-600 Takshak EHWT once it is cleared for production, and it will not only be limited to the Project-75 program but also to the 75I, 76 and 77 programs.\n\nIf Takshak's 2026-27 trials go well, DRDO will own the 200+ follow-on order for the requirements for the Kalvari fleet itself.\n\nIn conclusion, the Takshak Torpedo is a significant development for the Indian Navy, and its success will have a major impact on submarine warfare. The trials are expected to be a major milestone for the Indian Navy, and the outcome will be closely watched by defence enthusiasts and experts alike.