Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders Limited (MDL) has entered formal contract negotiations with Indian defence procurement authorities for Project 75(I), a landmark programme to construct six next-generation conventional submarines in collaboration with Germany’s ThyssenKrupp Marine Systems (TKMS).
The ₹43,000-crore initiative is a key pillar of the Indian Navy’s fleet modernisation and a major boost to the government’s Atmanirbhar Bharat and Make in India missions. Under the plan, six advanced submarines designed in Germany will be built at MDL in Mumbai, supported by the transfer of technology and indigenous capacity building.
Calling the partnership “a foundation for trust, innovation and shared goals,” TKMS CEO Oliver Burkhard said India is poised to emerge as a global hub for submarine technology and manufacturing. “Together – with the support of both governments – we can enable India to deliver world-class submarines for its navy and for friendly fleets worldwide,” he added.
Officials said the project will not only strengthen India’s naval power projection but also generate jobs, enhance shipbuilding skills, and expand industrial opportunities in the defence sector. With Air Independent Propulsion (AIP) systems to be provided by TKMS, the submarines are expected to offer extended endurance and cutting-edge operational capability.
For Germany, the deal underscores its role as a trusted defence technology partner and signals a deepening of strategic and industrial ties with India. For New Delhi, Project 75(I) marks a decisive step in reducing dependence on foreign platforms while contributing to regional maritime security.
