The Ministry of Defence of the Government of India recently signed two contracts worth about Rs 2,867 crore for two Submarine projects. These contracts are aimed at enhancing the capabilities of the Indian Navy and providing support to the country’s self-reliance in defence technology.
Submarine Agreement by Ministry of Defence
- ‘Make in India’ initiative: Both the agreements are under the ‘Make in India’ initiative, which means that the propulsion systems and torpedoes will be manufactured in India.
Air Independent Propulsion (AIP) System
- The first agreement is worth Rs 1,990 crore, signed with Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders Limited (MDL), Mumbai.
- The AIP system is being developed indigenously by the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO), which will increase the stealth and endurance of conventional submarines.
Integration of Electronic Heavy-Weight Torpedo (EHWT)
- The second deal is worth Rs 877 crore, which will be done in collaboration between Indian Navy, DRDO and Naval Group (France).
- This will boost the firepower of Indian Navy’s Kalvari class submarines.
- Air Independent Propulsion (AIP) Plug
Technology of AIP Plug
- This is an advanced technology, which is used in non-nuclear submarines.
- The AIP system reduces the need for submarines to surface.
- Improvement in submarine operations
- Conventional diesel-electric submarines have to surface to run the diesel engine and charge the batteries.
- Surfacing can make the submarine identifiable by the enemy, which affects stealth.
Benefits of AIP
- The AIP system gives submarines the ability to stay underwater for a longer period of time.
- It enhances the stealth and operational capability of the submarine.
Electronic Heavy Weight Torpedo
Technology of EHWT
- It is a state-of-the-art weapon, which increases the firepower of submarines.
- It is also known as F21 Heavy Weight Torpedo.
Aluminum Silver Oxide Technology
- EHWT uses advanced aluminum silver oxide technology.
- This technology increases the range and speed of the torpedo.
Modern Security
- It is more lethal than other torpedoes.
- Security has been given priority while designing the torpedo, so there is no possibility of accidental explosion in case of fire or torpedo falling on the submarine.
Strategic Importance
Improves India’s Defense Capability
- These advanced technologies prove to be an important step in the modernization of India’s naval fleet and development of indigenous defense capabilities.
- This move enhances India’s self-reliance in the era of instability in global supply chains of defence technology.
Strengthening India’s position as a regional power
- Self-reliance in defence technology strengthens India’s position as a regional power.
- It helps India to become a strong player as a global power.
Boosting submarine capabilities
- By enhancing submarine capabilities India can ensure security of important sea lanes.
- It helps to deter any adverse naval activity and maintain the balance of power in the region.