India Advances Underwater Combat Capabilities with ₹99,000 Crore Deal for German AIP Submarines Under Project 75I
India is poised to enhance its underwater combat capabilities significantly with a ₹99,000 crore defense agreement to procure six advanced submarines from Germany's Thyssenkrupp Marine Systems (TKMS). These submarines will be built domestically by Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders Limited (MDL) in Mumbai as part of the Indian Navy's Project 75I initiative.
Defense sources indicate that a draft Cabinet note for this project has been distributed following approval from the Defence Acquisition Council, led by Defence Minister Rajnath Singh. The proposal now awaits final clearance from the Cabinet Committee on Security, chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, and requires approvals from the Finance Ministry and the National Security Council.
First AIP Submarines for the Indian Navy
The submarines will feature Air Independent Propulsion (AIP) technology, considerably boosting their underwater endurance and stealth capabilities. Unlike traditional diesel-electric submarines that need to surface frequently to recharge batteries, AIP submarines can stay submerged longer, making them less detectable.
This acquisition will introduce the first AIP-equipped conventional submarines into the Indian Navy's fleet, representing a significant technological advancement in India's underwater warfare capabilities.
Selection After Competitive Trials
The Indian Navy considered various options before selecting the German design. The final decision came down to a choice between TKMS submarines from Germany and a Spanish design. After thorough trials and technical evaluations, the German platform was chosen.
India already has German HDW submarines acquired in the 1980s and 1990s, which continue to serve effectively and reliably in its fleet.
Strengthening India’s Submarine Fleet
Presently, the Indian Navy operates 16 conventional submarines, which include:
| 6 Kilo-class submarines of Soviet/Russian origin |
| 4 HDW submarines from Germany |
| 6 Scorpene-class submarines built with French collaboration |
Many Kilo-class submarines are over 35 years old and are expected to be decommissioned in the coming years. The new AIP submarines will gradually replace these aging vessels, strengthening India's underwater combat capabilities.
Boost for ‘Make in India’ in Defence
This project supports India’s ‘Make in India’ initiative, as the submarines will be constructed locally by Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders Limited, with technology transfer from TKMS. The agreement also includes training and infrastructure development to support the advanced submarine program.
Strategic Significance
Project 75I is deemed vital for maintaining India's maritime dominance in the Indian Ocean Region, especially amid escalating naval competition and increased submarine activity from regional powers.
The deployment of these advanced submarines is expected to enhance stealth, endurance, and operational flexibility, ensuring the Indian Navy maintains a credible underwater deterrent for the foreseeable future.
