The spotlight is on Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders recently following the launch of the sixth Scorpene Submarine ‘Vagsheer’ under Project-75. This occasion raises awareness and curiosity about the significance of Scorpene Class Submarines, the unique features of Vagsheer, and the purpose of Project-75.
Understanding Scorpene Class Submarines
Project-75’s Scorpene Class Submarines boast diesel-electric propulsion systems. Amongst the most advanced submarines, Scorpene is designed for multiple functions such as anti-surface ship warfare, anti-submarine warfare, intelligence gathering, mine-laying, and area surveillance. The addition of the Scorpene class marks the Navy’s entry into the realm of modern conventional submarine series, the first since INS Sindhushastra, acquired from Russia in July 2000.
The Significance of Submarine Vagsheer
Named after the formidable sand fish, a deep sea predator prevalent in the Indian Ocean, Vagsheer possesses a legacy within the Indian Navy. The initial submarine Vagsheer, commissioned from Russia in December 1974, served until its decommissioning in April 1997. As the final Scorpene class submarine crafted under the P75 project, it is anticipated to join the Navy fleet within 12-18 months after undergoing sea trials.
Special Features of Vagsheer
Vagsheer is a diesel attack submarine, constructed to perform both sea denial and access denial warfare against enemies. Its features include a C303 anti-torpedo countermeasure system and capacity for carrying up to 18 torpedoes or Exocet anti-ship missiles, or 30 mines in place of torpedoes. It exhibits superior stealth attributes like advanced acoustic absorption tactics, low radiated noise levels, and hydro-dynamically optimized shape. Moreover, it is capable of launching crippling attacks using precision-guided weapons underwater or on the surface.
Purpose and Progress of Project-75
Project-75, along with P75I, establishes one of two lines of submarines under a plan approved in 1999 for indigenous submarine construction using technology obtained from overseas firms. Mazgaon Dock was handed the contract for six submarines under P75 in October 2005 with deliveries originally scheduled to commence from 2012.
The project, however, has faced delays. The programme implements technology transfer from French company Naval Group (previously DCNS) at Mazagon Dock Limited (MDL). Under P75, INS Kalvari, INS Khanderi, INS Karanj, and INS Vela have been commissioned, while sea trials are underway for Vagir. The production of Vagsheer, the sixth in the line, was hindered due to the pandemic.
Thus, despite various challenges, the launch of Vagsheer marks a significant milestone in the continued evolution and strengthening of India’s naval defenses, highlighting the country’s capabilities in state-of-the-art submarine construction.
