SOURCE: AFI
Spanish shipbuilding giant Navantia has asserted that the S-80 Class submarine it has offered to India under the ambitious Project-75 (I) program is not a diluted export variant but the exact model deployed by the Spanish Navy. This claim strengthens Navantia’s position in India’s hunt for advanced conventional submarines equipped with next-generation capabilities.
The S-80 Class submarine, currently in service with the Spanish Navy, represents a new generation of non-nuclear propulsion submarines, designed for extended missions and high-performance operations. Speaking about its offer to India, Navantia emphasized that the platform will come equipped with all systems identical to those used by Spain, with no major subsystems omitted or downgraded.
This assurance is significant, as export variants of military platforms are often stripped of sensitive technologies or advanced capabilities due to licensing restrictions or operational concerns. Navantia’s offer underscores its commitment to providing India with a fully capable submarine to meet operational and strategic needs.
India’s Project-75 (I) seeks to acquire six advanced conventional submarines with air-independent propulsion capabilities under its Strategic Partnership Model. This initiative aims to boost domestic submarine manufacturing capabilities through collaboration with foreign original equipment manufacturers (OEMs).
Navantia is one of the global OEMs shortlisted to partner with an Indian shipyard for the program. If selected, it will transfer technology and provide technical expertise to ensure that the submarines are built domestically, aligning with India’s Aatmanirbhar Bharat (Self-Reliant India) vision.
Key Features of the S-80 Class Submarine
- Air-Independent Propulsion (AIP) System:
The S-80 features a state-of-the-art AIP system, allowing it to remain submerged for extended periods. This capability significantly enhances stealth and endurance, making it suitable for India’s operational requirements in the Indian Ocean Region. - High Operational Range:
With a range of up to 8,000 nautical miles, the S-80 is well-suited for long-duration missions, including intelligence gathering, surveillance, and anti-ship or anti-submarine warfare. - Advanced Sonar and Combat Systems:
The submarine is equipped with cutting-edge sonar and integrated combat management systems for enhanced situational awareness and combat effectiveness. - Payload and Versatility:
The S-80 can carry a diverse range of weapons, including torpedoes and land-attack cruise missiles, offering flexibility for various mission profiles. - Crew Comfort and Automation:
The submarine’s automation reduces crew workload, while its design prioritizes crew comfort during extended deployments.