SOURCE: RAUNAK KUNDE / NEWS BEAT / IDRW.ORG
India is set to embark on a significant naval undertaking with the development of a new diesel-electric submarine under Project 76. The Warship Design Bureau (WDB) and Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders Limited (MDL) have been entrusted with the responsibility of designing this cutting-edge submarine, which will incorporate the latest Indian-made technologies.
Project 76 represents an in-house endeavour, showcasing India’s commitment to self-reliance and indigenous defence production. The project aims to leverage advanced Indian technologies, including Ship and Weapon Control Systems, Air-Independent Propulsion (AIP), Lithium-ion batteries, sensors, and other domestically developed systems. By utilizing these state-of-the-art technologies, the new submarine will boast enhanced operational capabilities and performance.
The design phase of the new diesel-electric submarine is expected to be completed by the end of 2025. Once the design is finalized, extensive testing and optimization work will be conducted to ensure the submarine meets the highest standards of quality, efficiency, and combat readiness. The thorough testing process will help refine the design further, paving the way for its manufacturing clearance by late 2028.
Under Project 76, India’s strategic plan encompasses the development of six next-generation diesel-electric submarines in the first phase. These submarines will serve as replacements for the ageing Soviet-era Kilo-class submarines. The new submarines will incorporate advanced technologies and systems, offering improved stealth, firepower, and endurance.
In the second phase of Project 76, an additional six submarines will be developed based on the same design, but with enhanced capabilities. This strategic expansion will strengthen India’s naval prowess and provide the Indian Navy with a formidable fleet of submarines, capable of meeting evolving security challenges in the region.
It’s noteworthy that while Project 76 focuses on the development of indigenous submarines, India is simultaneously pursuing the acquisition of six next-generation submarines under Project-75I, based on foreign designs. These submarines will be manufactured locally in India, replacing the ageing German Shishumar-class submarines, which are based on the T-209 class of submarines.
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