SOURCE: AFI
Hindustan Shipyard Limited (HSL) has achieved a remarkable feat with the successful undocking of a Russian-made EKM-class submarine on June 15th. This accomplishment, completed in record time despite facing challenges, highlights HSL’s growing capabilities and strengthens its position for future submarine construction opportunities under the Indian government’s “Make in India” initiative.
This achievement comes on the heels of a significant contract awarded by the Ministry of Defence (MoD) in 2023. The contract entails a Normal Refit of the Sindhukirti, a Kilo-class diesel-electric submarine, at the HSL shipyard in Visakhapatnam. This project, valued at a substantial Rs 934 crore, will revitalize the third submarine in India’s Kilo-class fleet.
Following the refit, the Sindhukirti submarine will be restored to battle-ready status, resuming its vital role in the Indian Navy’s active submarine fleet. The MoD emphasizes that this project’s primary objective is to establish alternative submarine repair facilities within India. This not only enhances the Navy’s operational readiness but also reduces dependence on foreign sources for maintenance.