SOURCE: AFI
In a significant milestone for India’s naval self-reliance, Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders Limited (MDL) marked the commencement of production for the first Air Independent Propulsion (AIP) system for the Indian Navy’s Scorpene-class submarines. The production plate cutting ceremony took place today at MDL’s facilities in Mumbai, presided over by Mr. Biju George, Chairman and Managing Director of MDL. He was joined by representatives from the Indian Navy and other senior MDL officials, underscoring the collaborative effort behind this ambitious project.
The ceremony signals the start of construction for the AIP plug, a critical enhancement designed to boost the underwater endurance of the Scorpène-class submarines under Project 75 (P-75). This indigenous AIP system, developed by the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) in partnership with Indian industry, will be integrated into the submarines during their scheduled normal refits, beginning with INS Kalvari in September 2025.
The AIP system being constructed at MDL is a testament to India’s growing expertise in defense technology. Developed by DRDO’s Naval Materials Research Laboratory (NMRL), the system uses a phosphoric acid fuel cell (PAFC) to generate power, offering a reliable and efficient alternative to foreign AIP technologies like France’s MESMA (Module d’Energie Sous-Marine Autonome). Unlike earlier plans to import AIP systems, the Indian Navy opted for this homegrown solution, reflecting confidence in its performance and adaptability.
The construction process will involve fabricating an 8- to 10-meter-long AIP plug, weighing approximately 300 tons, which will be retrofitted into the submarine hulls. This complex procedure requires cutting the submarine into two halves and inserting the new section—a task that MDL, with assistance from Naval Group, is well-equipped to handle. The first integration will occur during INS Kalvari’s refit, serving as a testbed for the technology before it is rolled out to the remaining five Scorpène submarines: INS Khanderi, INS Karanj, INS Vela, INS Vagir, and INS Vagsheer.
The induction of AIP-equipped Scorpène submarines will significantly bolster the Indian Navy’s underwater capabilities at a time when regional security dynamics are shifting. With China expanding its submarine presence in the Indian Ocean and Pakistan operating AIP-enabled Agosta 90B submarines, India’s need for advanced, stealthy underwater platforms has never been greater. The AIP system will enable prolonged surveillance and deterrence missions in critical areas like the Bay of Bengal, the Arabian Sea, and the eastern Indian Ocean, enhancing India’s maritime dominance.
This development also strengthens MDL’s position as a global leader in submarine construction. Having delivered all six Scorpène submarines under Project 75—despite initial delays—the Mumbai-based shipyard has proven its ability to execute complex warship and submarine projects. The AIP plug construction leverages MDL’s state-of-the-art facilities, including the recently inaugurated AIP Integration and Testing Facility at the AM Naik Heavy Engineering Complex, ensuring that the system meets rigorous operational standards.
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