Naval Technology

India signs contracts for submarine enhancements with AIP and EHWT

The contracts encompass the construction and incorporation of an AIP system, developed by the DRDO, into Indian submarines.

The Indian Ministry of Defence has concluded agreements totalling approximately Rs28.67bn ($334.82m) for the enhancement of its submarine fleet.

These contracts encompass the construction and incorporation of an Air Independent Propulsion (AIP) system, developed by the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO), into Indian submarines.

Additionally, the contracts cover the integration of an Electronic Heavy Weight Torpedo (EHWT) into the Kalvari-Class submarines.

The signing ceremony in New Delhi saw Defence Secretary Rajesh Kumar Singh preside over the finalisation of these contracts.

Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders, Mumbai, secured the AIP system contract valued at around Rs19.90bn.

In contrast, the EHWT integration contract, valued at approximately Rs87.7bn, was awarded to the French company Naval Group.

These technological advancements, particularly the indigenous AIP system by DRDO, are set to bolster the combat capabilities of the Indian Navy's Kalvari-Class submarines.

The collaboration for the EHWT integration involves the Indian Navy, DRDO, and Naval Group, France.

Indian Ministry of Defence’s press release noted that: “The project pertaining to construction of AIP-Plug and its integration will enhance the endurance of conventional submarines and significantly contribute towards the ‘Aatmanirbhar Bharat’ initiative.”

The Kalvari-Class submarines are based on the SCORPENE-class diesel-electric attack submarines.

The first of these submarines, INS Kalvari, was commissioned in 2017 and was entirely constructed by Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders through a technology transfer partnership with Naval Group.

The SCORPENE-class submarines are designed for an array of missions including anti-surface and anti-submarine warfare, long-range strikes, special operations, and intelligence gathering.

Last year Naval Group's Indian subsidiary inaugurated a technical workshop at the Karwar shipyard.

This facility is strategically located near the Indian Navy’s Ship Repair Yard, which services the nation's aircraft carriers, warships, and Kalvari-class submarines.