The Indian Navy has embarked on a mission to modernize its existing conventional submarine fleet, initiating trials for the development of highly advanced submarines through a Rs 60,000 crore tender. The contract entails the construction of six stealth submarines equipped with Air Independent Propulsion (AIP) technology, allowing for extended underwater operations.
Trials have commenced for competing teams, including Larsen and Toubro and Mazagaon Dockyard Limited. The recent trials in Kiel, Germany, evaluated the Air Independent Propulsion system of the German submarines. Defence officials have informed India Today that the German side has partnered with the Defence Ministry-owned MDL for this endeavor. The competition aims to construct stealth submarines for India's program in collaboration with Germany and Spain.
Further trials are scheduled for June at the Spanish Navy facility. Navantia from Spain and Larsen and Toubro from India are collaborating on this ambitious project. This initiative aligns with India's Make In India program, with Indian firms anticipated to secure over Rs 30,000 crore worth of business through this defense project.
