Navy hoped to finalise contract before 31 March this year, it is learnt. The additional Scorpenes are expected to be larger, more capable in terms of endurance & firepower than existing 6.
The new submarines will see certain design changes and will be similar to the one being supplied to Brazilian Navy. This also makes the 3 slightly larger than the previous 6.
Vagsheer, the 6th & last Scorpene-class submarine, was ordered in 2005 & launched in April 2022. The guided missile Nilgiri-class frigate will be the first of 7 new stealth frigates.
This deployment by the Indian Navy Friday is a stark contrast to the submarine history of the last two decades that has seen the arm hit by dwindling strength, accidents and write-offs.
INS Vagir has sailed continuously since its deployment in June except for one port stop in Sri Lanka, resurfacing every 3-4 days to recharge its batteries for a few hours.
The 3 new submarines are being built by the Mazagon Dock Ltd Shipyard in Mumbai, in partnership with France's Naval Group. They are designed for hunting down enemy submarines & surface ships.
India has a 30-year plan that ends in 2030, to induct 24 submarines including 18 diesel-electric and six nuclear-powered SSNs. Only 6 conventional submarines have been made so far.
Rajnath Singh-led Defence Acquisition Council cleared proposals for procurement of the fighter aircraft and submarines just after PM left for his official visit to France, it is learnt.
For at least a decade, developing countries across Asia and Africa have worried about growing dependent on China. They’re concerned about debt traps, coercive policies,...
French newspaper La Tribune earlier last week indicated that UAE withdrew from deal to fund EUR 3.5 billion. India is looking to order 114 new Rafales, which could include the F5.
China patiently invested capital, skill and technology in coal gasification. Unlike it, we won’t move from words to action. As crude prices decline, we lose interest.
COMMENTS