In a significant development in India’s defence acquisition landscape, Spain has expressed its willingness to provide complete air-independent propulsion (AIP) technology for the stealth submarines it is building for the Indian Navy.
Under the $5.27 billion Project-75 India (P-75I), also known as the New Submarine Construction Programme, Spain’s state-owned defence giant Navantia aims to offer the submarines at a competitive price compared to other contenders, including Germany’s Thyssenkrupp.
As part of its commitment to the Indian government’s Make in India initiative, Navantia entered into a teaming agreement with Larsen and Toubro (L&T) in July last year to manufacture the submarines locally. Now, Spain is set to dispatch its top defence official, Secretary of State for Defence Amparo Valcarce, to India for discussions with Indian counterparts on March 7 and 8.
According to sources familiar with the matter, the primary agenda of Valcarce’s visit will be discussions on the procurement of six advanced stealth submarines equipped with the latest AIP technology.
Spain has asserted that its submarines offer the most competitive pricing despite featuring cutting-edge AIP technology. These submarines are intended to replace the Indian Navy’s aging fleet of 11 diesel-electric powered submarines, which were inducted in the 1990s.
The ongoing negotiations hold strategic significance for both countries, with officials expressing optimism about positive outcomes post the parliamentary elections. Although talks around the deal may face delays due to India’s upcoming general elections scheduled for mid-year, the discussions have been progressing well.
Earlier discussions during the visit of Spanish Deputy Prime Minister Teresa Ribera to India highlighted the importance of the submarine deal in bilateral relations. The Ministry of Defence’s proposal to build next-generation submarines with advanced AIP technology aims to enhance India’s maritime capabilities significantly.
Navantia’s offering includes S-80 submarines with a displacement of 3,000 tonnes and a proven AIP system. The company is also considering exporting these submarines from India to other nations in the future, reflecting its long-term commitment to strategic partnerships in the region.
Navantia’s prior experience in India, including its involvement in the co-design and technology transfer for the Scorpene submarines built by Mazagon Dock Ltd., underscores its expertise and track record in collaborating with Indian defence entities.
With Spain’s offer of complete AIP technology transfer, the Indian Navy stands to gain access to cutting-edge capabilities, further strengthening India’s defence preparedness and self-reliance in naval operations.
