In recent news, the third Scorpene submarine, Karanj, is scheduled for delivery to the Indian Navy by December 2020. The submarine is an integral part of Project-75 and was initially launched in January 2018. Currently, it is undergoing advanced sea trials. This article takes a closer look at Project-75, highlighting details about its inception, its progress, and the technological advancements it brings.
The Inception of Project-75
Devised by the Indian Navy, Project-75 is an ambitious programme focusing on the construction of six Scorpene-Class attack submarines. Partnering with the French company Naval Group (formerly known as DCNS), this project utilises transferred technology and is executed at the Mazagon Dock Limited (MDL).
The Submarines of Project-75
The submarines forming part of Project-75 are powered by a conventional diesel-electric propulsion system. The maiden Scorpene submarine, Kalvari, was commissioned in 2017, with a provision for a normal refit after six years in 2023. During this period, the Air-Independent Propulsion (AIP) is planned to be installed, boosting the submarine’s performance underwater.
The second Scorpene, Khanderi, became officially operational in September 2019. The remaining submarines (Vela, Vagir, and Vagsheer) in the series are in advanced stages of manufacturing and trials.
Understanding the Air-Independent Propulsion (AIP) Technology
Traditional submarines use a diesel-electric engine and must surface regularly for the oxygen necessary for fuel combustion. With the Air Independent Propulsion (AIP) system, the frequency of this requirement reduces significantly.
Though many naval powers, including India, have acquired nuclear-powered submarines for deep-sea operations, the conventional diesel-electric variants retain importance due to their utility in coastal defence. These submarines are designed for stealth, and their weapons and sensors allow effective operations close to the shore.
However, diesel-electric submarines frequently surface to recharge their batteries, which limits their underwater endurance time. This is where the ‘Air-Independent’ propulsion technology becomes a game-changer, reducing the diesel generator’s dependency on surface air and making these submarines more efficient. This technology is being developed by the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO), promising extended endurance capabilities undersea for the submarines.
Project-75 signifies a significant step in advancing India’s maritime capabilities and reinforces the Indian Navy’s strategic advantage in the region. With state-of-the-art submarines like Karanj scheduled for delivery, this initiative promises a new era in undersea warfare for the country.