SOURCE: RAUNAK KUNDE / NEWS BEAT / IDRW.ORG
In a significant development aimed at bolstering India’s submarine prowess, the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) and the Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders Limited (MDL) are set to engage in a competitive design race for the Indian Navy’s upcoming Project-76. This ambitious project envisions the procurement of 12 next-generation submarines in two phases of six each.
DRDO has received the green light to collaborate with the Indian Navy’s Warship Design Bureau (WDB) to develop a new indigenous conventional submarine design. Drawing inspiration from the successfully concluded SSN nuclear attack submarine’s design phase, DRDO’s design is expected to incorporate cutting-edge technology and advanced capabilities.
Simultaneously, MDL, India’s sole submarine builder, is charting its course. The shipyard plans to unveil its indigenous submarine design by 2028, positioning it as a potential counteroffer. The MDL’s design is anticipated to build upon the experience gained from the locally produced Kalvari-class submarines, while integrating technological advancements derived from the U-214 submarines, currently the frontrunners in the Project-75I competition.
This unprecedented dual-track approach presents the Indian Navy with a unique opportunity to evaluate two distinct submarine concepts before making a final decision. While DRDO’s project enjoys the backing of the Ministry of Defence, MDL’s initiative is self-funded, potentially creating a level playing field for both contenders.
The outcome of this design competition will have far-reaching implications for India’s submarine force. It is expected to accelerate the nation’s self-reliance in submarine technology and strengthen its maritime capabilities.
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