New Delhi, India – In a significant boost to the Indian Navy’s underwater capabilities, the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) has announced that the Scorpene submarines will be equipped with Air Independent Propulsion (AIP) technology by 2026. DRDO Chairperson, Dr. Samir Kamat, revealed the plans, emphasizing the strategic importance of this development.
The AIP system will enable the Scorpene submarines to remain submerged for extended periods, significantly enhancing their stealth and combat capabilities. This technology will allow the submarines to operate without surfacing, making them more difficult to detect and increasing their effectiveness in naval operations.
The integration of AIP technology is part of the Indian Navy’s modernization efforts, aimed at enhancing its submarine fleet’s capabilities. The Scorpene submarines, built in collaboration with France, have been inducted into the Indian Navy since 2017. The addition of AIP technology will further bolster their capabilities, making them more potent in the Indian Ocean region.
Dr. Kamat’s announcement highlights India’s commitment to self-reliance in defense technology and its efforts to develop critical capabilities domestically. The successful integration of AIP technology will mark a significant milestone in India’s submarine development program, enhancing the Indian Navy’s operational capabilities and contributing to the country’s national security.
