In order to maintain the force levels of diesel-attack submarines, Prime Minister Narendra Modi has put the proposal to build three additional Kalvari class (evolved Scorpene class) submarines at Mazagon Dockyards Limited with support of French Naval Group on the front-burner.
The estimated cost for construction will be around ₹ 33000 crore and a modified proposal is being put up before Cabinet Committee on Security (CCS). What is more significant is that after building the upgraded Kalveri class, India will be able to lease out submarines to friendly countries like Indonesia or even construct for them under 100 per cent TOT transfer from Naval Group. Another reason for the revival of the Project 75 proposal is the fact that the Project 75 (I) has been delayed due to validation of AIP developed by the DRDO even though Germany’s TKMS is ready to provide the AIP for the Project 75 (I) class submarines.
the Indian Navy is expected to acquire one SSN from Russia on lease by 2028 While the Modi government has given clearance to the Indian Navy to construct two conventionally armed nuclear powered submarines (SSN). With the Indo-Pacific threatened by expansionist PLA Navy and instability of Middle-East, it is important that India maintains a minimum conventional submarine force deterrent while its nuclear submarine with nuclear ballistic missile (SSBN) project is going at full speed with four such deterrent to enter the Indian Navy next year.
