By Vidit Kumar
State-owned Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders Limited (MDL) is on the verge of finalizing a significant ₹35,000-crore deal with the Indian Navy for the acquisition of three additional Kalvari-class submarines. These new submarines will surpass the capabilities of the six previously acquired Kalvari-class vessels, featuring larger size and advanced technology.
Background
• The Kalvari-class submarines are diesel-electric attack submarines currently operated by the Indian Navy.
• These submarines are based on the French-origin Scorpene-class design.
• The Indian Navy inducted its first Kalvari-class submarine in 2017, with the sixth one scheduled for induction this year.
• In 2023, approval was granted for the addition of three more conventional submarines.
Key Points
• MDL has submitted a comprehensive techno-commercial bid for the contract, ensuring at least 60% indigenous content in the new submarines.
• Indian suppliers and micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) are expected to play a crucial role in the construction of these vessels.
• This initiative aims to set the stage for future submarines of the same class to be entirely designed, developed, and manufactured in India.
The final pricing of the three submarines will be determined through negotiations between MDL and the Ministry of Defence, with the deal projected to be valued at around ₹35,000 crore. In December 2023, MDL submitted a bid to build these submarines, incorporating a higher degree of indigenously-developed technology and an air-independent propulsion (AIP) module for extended underwater endurance.
The acquisition of these advanced Kalvari-class submarines is poised to significantly enhance the Indian Navy’s underwater capabilities and bolster national security.
