SOURCE: RAUNAK KUNDE / NEWS BEAT / IDRW.ORG
On June 10, 2025, Krishna Defence and Allied Industries Ltd (KDAIL) marked a historic milestone with a ceremonial plate-cutting event at its Halol facility in Gujarat, signaling the start of construction for India’s largest and most advanced Autonomous Underwater Vehicle (AUV), the Jalkapi Extra-Large Unmanned Underwater Vehicle (XLUUV). This ambitious project, spearheaded by the Indian Navy, represents a significant leap toward self-reliance in cutting-edge defense technology.
The Jalkapi, designed by the Indian Navy’s Directorate of Naval Design – Submarine Design Group (DND-SDG), is a collaborative effort involving KDAIL, Rekise Marine, and Steel Authority of India Limited (SAIL). The project underscores India’s growing expertise in autonomous underwater systems and its commitment to bolstering maritime defense capabilities.
Speaking at the event, Ankur Shah, Managing Director of KDAIL, emphasized the project’s broader significance: “This isn’t just about building a vehicle; it’s about building technical and strategic independence. Today, we are laying the foundation for a new era of underwater autonomy and a future in which India is no longer just participating, but leading. We are proud to be trusted by the Indian Navy as their partner in this mission.”
The Jalkapi XLUUV, first unveiled in design form at Aero India 2025 in Bengaluru (February 10–14), is poised to redefine India’s underwater operational capabilities. Measuring 11 meters in length with a streamlined cylindrical hull, the 20-ton vehicle is engineered for stealth and enhanced maneuverability. Capable of diving to depths of 300 meters and operating for 30 to 45 days, Jalkapi rivals global counterparts like Boeing’s Orca XLUUV.
The Jalkapi is equipped with an advanced suite of technologies tailored to meet the Indian Navy’s stringent requirements. Its design prioritizes endurance, stealth, and versatility, enabling it to undertake a range of missions, from intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR) to mine countermeasures and anti-submarine warfare support. The vehicle’s autonomous capabilities are expected to reduce operational risks to human crews while enhancing India’s ability to secure its maritime borders.
The collaboration between KDAIL, Rekise Marine, and SAIL highlights the strength of India’s defense ecosystem, combining expertise in engineering, materials, and naval architecture. The project also aligns with the government’s “Aatmanirbhar Bharat” (Self-Reliant India) initiative, fostering indigenous innovation and reducing dependence on foreign technology.
The construction of Jalkapi marks a pivotal moment in India’s journey toward becoming a global leader in defense technology. By developing an XLUUV with capabilities comparable to those of advanced naval powers, India is strengthening its strategic autonomy and asserting its presence in the Indo-Pacific region. The project is expected to create new opportunities for technological advancements and industrial growth, further solidifying India’s position in the global defense landscape.
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