India is set to significantly strengthen its underwater combat capabilities with a ₹99,000 crore defence deal to acquire six advanced submarines from Germany’s Thyssenkrupp Marine Systems (TKMS). The submarines will be constructed in India by Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders Limited (MDL) in Mumbai under the Indian Navy’s Project 75I programme.
According to defence sources, the draft Cabinet note for the project has already been circulated after receiving approval from the Defence Acquisition Council (DAC) headed by Defence Minister Rajnath Singh. The proposal will now require final clearance from the Cabinet Committee on Security (CCS) chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, along with approvals from the Finance Ministry and the National Security Council.
First AIP Submarines for the Indian Navy
The six submarines will be equipped with Air Independent Propulsion (AIP) technology, which significantly enhances underwater endurance and stealth capabilities. Unlike conventional diesel-electric submarines that must frequently surface to recharge batteries, AIP submarines can remain submerged for longer durations, making them harder to detect.
These will be the first AIP-equipped conventional submarines in the Indian Navy’s fleet, marking a major technological upgrade for India’s underwater warfare capability.
Selection After Competitive Trials
The Indian Navy evaluated multiple options before selecting the German design. The final competition was between TKMS submarines from Germany and a Spanish design. After extensive trials and technical assessments, the German platform was chosen.
India already operates German HDW submarines acquired in the 1980s and 1990s, which continue to serve in the fleet and have demonstrated reliable performance.
Strengthening India’s Submarine Fleet
Currently, the Indian Navy operates 16 conventional submarines, including:
- 6 Kilo-class submarines of Soviet/Russian origin
- 4 HDW submarines from Germany
- 6 Scorpene-class submarines built with French collaboration
Many of the Kilo-class submarines are over 35 years old and are expected to be phased out in the coming years. The new AIP submarines will gradually replace ageing platforms and enhance India’s underwater combat strength.
Boost for ‘Make in India’ in Defence
The project aligns with India’s ‘Make in India’ initiative, as the submarines will be constructed domestically by Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders Limited with technology transfer from TKMS. The deal will also include training and infrastructure development required to support the advanced submarine programme.
Strategic Significance
Project 75I is considered crucial for maintaining India’s maritime dominance in the Indian Ocean Region (IOR), especially amid growing naval competition and increasing submarine presence from regional powers.
The induction of these advanced submarines is expected to enhance stealth, endurance and operational flexibility, ensuring the Indian Navy maintains a credible underwater deterrent in the coming decades.
