SOURCE: AFI
In a significant advancement for India’s naval technology, the Secretary of the Department of Defence Research and Development (DDR&D) and Chairman of the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO), Dr. Samir V. Kamat, presided over the steel cutting ceremony for the Air Independent Propulsion (AIP) system at Larsen & Toubro’s (L&T) Hazira facility today. This ceremony marks a crucial milestone in the AIP program, heralding the beginning of the manufacturing phase for this innovative technology.
The AIP system, developed by DRDO, is set to enhance the endurance and stealth capabilities of India’s Kalvari-class submarines, allowing them to stay submerged for longer periods without surfacing for air. This technology is vital for operations in strategic waters, where maintaining a low acoustic profile is paramount. The steel cutting ceremony is not just a procedural step but symbolizes the transition from design and development to tangible production.
The AIP technology being manufactured at the L&T facility is a result of technology transfer from DRDO to L&T Precision Systems and Engineering. This partnership underscores the successful collaboration between India’s defense research institutions and its industrial sector, showcasing a commitment to ‘Make in India’ in defense manufacturing. Dr. Samir V. Kamat, during the ceremony, expressed his satisfaction with the progress of the AIP system’s manufacturing, highlighting the importance of domestic production for national security.
The event was attended by key figures from both DRDO and L&T, along with government officials, emphasizing the project’s significance. The ceremonial cutting of steel is a traditional start to major naval construction projects and represents the physical commencement of a project that has been years in the making. This ceremony also reinforces the narrative of India’s journey towards self-reliance in defense technology, aligning with the broader national goal of Atmanirbhar Bharat (Self-reliant India).