Project-75 (I) Submarine Deal: Mazagon Dock and Thyssenkrupp Partnership Approved

Why in news?

• In January 2025, the Indian Government approved the bid from Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders Limited (MDL) and German defense company Thyssenkrupp Marine Systems to lead the submarine manufacturing project under Project-75 (I). This approval marks a significant step forward in India’s defense procurement strategy.

Overview of Project-75 (I):

• Project-75 (I) is a strategic initiative by India to bolster its naval defense capabilities by constructing six advanced, conventional diesel-electric attack submarines.
• These submarines will be equipped with cutting-edge stealth features, modern weapons, sensors, and an Air Independent Propulsion (AIP) system.
• The project aims to enhance India’s underwater combat, stealth, and strategic positioning.

Key Objectives and Vision of Project-75 (I):

• The core aim of Project-75 (I) is to significantly enhance India’s indigenous submarine-building capabilities.
• This project will lead to the construction of advanced submarines that will play a vital role in strengthening India’s naval defense while promoting the Atmanirbhar Bharat (Self-reliant India) mission.

Background:

• Project-75 (I) is a continuation of Project-75, which commenced in 1997 with an initial plan to build 24 submarines. However, due to financial and industrial constraints, only six Kalvari-class submarines were approved.
• Project-75 (I) aims to overcome the previous hurdles by incorporating advanced technologies, including AIP and fuel-cell systems, making these submarines highly efficient and operational for extended durations underwater.

Key Features of Project-75 (I):

• Stealth and Combat Features:
  • The submarines will have advanced acoustic absorption techniques and low radiated noise levels, which enhance their stealth and reduce the risk of detection.
  • They will be equipped with long-range guided torpedoes, anti-ship missiles, and advanced sonar systems for superior combat capabilities.
• AIP Technology:
  • The Air-Independent Propulsion (AIP) system, powered by fuel cells, will allow the submarines to remain submerged for up to two weeks, significantly improving their operational flexibility and stealth.
  • The integration of DRDO’s indigenous AIP system into these submarines represents a key technological advancement.
• Indigenisation and MSME Development:
  • The project emphasizes indigenous manufacturing, with the first submarine expected to have at least 45% indigenisation, rising to 60% by the sixth submarine.
  • The project will also boost India’s manufacturing sector, especially MSMEs, which will supply components and systems for the submarines.
• Larger Submarines:
  • The submarines under Project-75 (I) may be larger than the previous Kalvari-class vessels, allowing for enhanced operational range and capacity.

Challenges and Issues:

• Delays:
  • Project-75 (I) has faced significant delays, including procurement issues and tendering stage holdups, which have pushed back timelines. The first submarine under Project-75 (I) is expected only in the coming years.
• Integration of AIP Technology:
  • The successful integration of the indigenous AIP system developed by DRDO is critical to the project. Delays in testing and integration are a concern, as the system must meet operational requirements before widespread deployment.
• Submarine Shortage:
  • The Indian Navy currently faces a submarine shortage, with many of its existing vessels being outdated. The delay in Project-75 (I) further exacerbates this challenge.
• Uncertainty in International Collaborations:
  • Collaboration issues with international partners, including Sweden, France, and Russia, have raised uncertainties about the technical direction and the timely completion of the project.

Projected Budget and Timeline:

• Cost: The Project-75 (I) is estimated to cost approximately Rs 43,000 crore, making it a multi-billion-dollar initiative.
• The submarines will feature state-of-the-art sensors, weapons, and technologies, which will significantly enhance India’s maritime defense capabilities.