The Indian Navy has recently added the fourth Scorpene Submarine, named ‘INS Vela’, to its fleet under Project P-75. This submersible ship, known for its diesel-electric propulsion systems, joins a lineup of advanced submarines that hold significant importance in strengthening the country’s maritime defence.
About Scorpene Class Submarine
Submarines that are part of Project-75 Scorpene Class are recognised globally for their top-notch diesel-electric propulsion systems. These ships represent a state-of-the-art marvel in the realm of underwater vessels. The Scorpene is considered one of the most refined submarines, demonstrating exceptional competency in undertaking diverse missions. Its capabilities include anti-surface ship warfare, anti-submarine warfare, intelligence gathering, mine laying, and area surveillance. In terms of modern conventional submarines, Scorpene class holds a significant place, as it’s the Navy’s first series in approximately two decades since INS Sindhushastra, which was procured from Russia in July 2000.
Project 75 and the Role of Kalvari Class Submarines
Under the aegis of the Indian Navy, Project 75 is a strategic initiative that involves building six Scorpene Class attack submarines. A noteworthy part of this project is the Kalvari class of submarines, whose design is influenced by the French Scorpene class of submarines. The execution of various phases of construction is supported by the Department of Defence Production (Ministry of Defence) in collaboration with the Indian Navy.
The Contribution of Mazagon Dock Limited
Mazagon Dock Limited (MDL), a defence public sector undertaking shipyard under the Ministry of Defence, plays a key role in the construction of Scorpene submarines. Operating with technology assistance from France’s Naval Group, MDL is manufacturing six Scorpene submarines. The remarkable work is part of a whopping USD 3.75 billion deal signed in October 2005.
Other Submarines Under Project-75
The ambitious Project-75 has seen the commissioning of two submarines, Kalvari and Khanderi, into the Indian Navy while the Scorpene ‘Vagir’ is currently undergoing trials. INS Vagsheer, the sixth submarine, is also presently under construction. These developments symbolise significant progress in India’s maritime defence capabilities. With the delivery of the fourth Scorpene Submarine, ‘INS Vela’, the project is steadily moving forward towards its ultimate goal of strengthening India’s naval power.
The source of the information in this article is from the Press Information Bureau(PIB).