SOURCE: IDRW.ORG TEAM
The Indian Navy has reportedly raised concerns over L&T Navantia’s bid for the prestigious Project-75I submarine program. The core issue revolves around the Air-Independent Propulsion (AIP) system, a critical technology for submarine endurance.
While L&T Navantia has touted its new Bio-Ethanol Stealth Technology (BEST) AIP system as a game-changer, the Indian Navy is insistent on a sea-worthy AIP system that is already integrated into a submarine. The Spanish company’s AIP trials were conducted on a land-based facility, a fact that has not impressed the naval brass.
The Navy’s stringent requirements have already led to the withdrawal of Russia and France from the tender due to their inability to meet the stipulated conditions. Both nations had AIP systems in place on land-based facilities but lacked a fully integrated system on an operational submarine.
L&T Navantia’s proposed S-80 Plus submarines will indeed be equipped with the BEST AIP system, but only from the third vessel onwards. The initial two submarines will have to be retrofitted with the technology, a process expected to be completed only after 2028.
The Indian Navy’s decision underscores its determination to acquire cutting-edge technology for its submarine fleet. With the stakes high, the remaining contenders in the Project-75I race will need to demonstrate their capabilities comprehensively to secure the lucrative contract.
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