India's Rs 90,000-crore Submarine Deal with Germany: Project-75I
UPSC / SSC current affairs note · Security
Why in news
India is reportedly finalizing a Rs 90,000-crore deal with Germany's ThyssenKrupp Marine Systems (TKMS) to build six AIP-equipped submarines under Project-75I. This deal is significant as it aims to boost India's naval capabilities and indigenous submarine manufacturing. However, no final contract has been announced yet.
Background
Project-75I is a long-pending Indian Navy programme to acquire six diesel-electric submarines with Air Independent Propulsion (AIP) technology, which allows submarines to stay submerged longer. The project is part of India's broader strategy to modernize its naval fleet and reduce dependence on imports.
Key facts
The deal is valued at approximately Rs 90,000 crore.
It involves building six AIP-equipped submarines in India.
The submarines will be built by Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders Limited (MDL) in collaboration with ThyssenKrupp Marine Systems (TKMS) of Germany.
The project is named Project-75I.
No final contract has been announced yet; the deal is still in the proposal stage.
AIP technology enhances submarine endurance by allowing them to operate without surfacing for extended periods.
The project is part of India's 'Make in India' initiative in the defence sector.
Prelims pointers
- Project-75I: Indian Navy programme for six AIP-equipped submarines.
- AIP: Air Independent Propulsion, a technology for non-nuclear submarines.
- MDL: Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders Limited, a leading Indian shipyard.
- TKMS: ThyssenKrupp Marine Systems, a German naval shipbuilding company.
- Make in India: Government initiative to promote domestic manufacturing.
Mains angles
- Discuss the strategic importance of AIP-equipped submarines for India's naval deterrence.
- Analyze the role of 'Make in India' in defence manufacturing with reference to Project-75I.
- Examine the challenges and benefits of technology transfer in defence deals.