Indian Navy's Next-Generation Submarine Project Moves Forward As Germany, Spain Join Hands With Domestic Shipyards

After a long delay of more than a decade, the Indian Navy's Project-75I for the construction of six next-generation submarines has started to make progress.

According to a report by NDTV, Germany and Spain have submitted bids for the Indian Navy's 'request for information' regarding the construction of six next-generation submarines equipped with air-independent propulsion technology.

Indian officials are currently evaluating the competing bids for the construction of these six submarines domestically.

Germany's Thyssenkrupp Marine Systems has partnered with Mumbai-based Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders Limited, while Spain's Navantia shipyard has formed a collaboration with the private shipyard Larsen & Toubro.

According to the report, the Indian Navy aims to select the bid that offers the most advanced and comprehensive technology transfer.

Amid China's accelerated expansion of its submarine fleet, the deteriorating state of India's own submarine fleet has raised concerns.

China is also aiding Pakistan in bolstering its submarine fleet by exporting eight advanced Yuan-class submarines.

With only 16 submarines, most of which are over three decades old and nearing decommissioning, the Indian Navy's present capabilities are inadequate to deter China's growing presence in the Indian Ocean.

Furthermore, alongside its efforts to counter China's naval activities, India, as a member of the Quad alliance consisting of Japan, the United States, and Australia, is positioning itself as a hub for manufacturing and technology transfer within the defence sector.

This focus extends to complex defence platforms like fighter aircraft and submarines.

The Navy intends to acquire a fleet of at least 24 conventional submarines, in the long run, for deterring China's aggressiveness in the Indian Ocean.