BDL Sets Sights on Global Market as Varunastra Torpedo Deliveries to Indian Navy Conclude

Following the successful completion of all Varunastra torpedo orders for the Indian Navy, Bharat Dynamics Limited (BDL) is actively exploring export opportunities for this indigenously developed anti-submarine weapon. In a recent interview with Bharat Shakti, Chairman of BDL A. Madhavarao confirmed that.

The Varunastra, a 533mm heavyweight torpedo, is a product of collaboration between BDL and the DRDO's Naval Science and Technological Laboratory (NSTL). With its advanced features, including an active-passive acoustic homing system, a powerful 250 kg high-explosive warhead, and selectable speed modes, the Varunastra has proven its effectiveness in anti-submarine warfare.

Having fulfilled the Indian Navy's requirements for 136 Varunastra torpedoes, BDL is now confident in the torpedo's export potential. The company believes that the Varunastra's combination of cutting-edge technology, competitive pricing, and proven performance will make it an attractive option for navies worldwide seeking to enhance their anti-submarine capabilities.

The decision to pursue exports also reflects the Indian government's broader push to promote indigenous defense products in the global market. With the Varunastra, BDL aims to showcase India's growing expertise in developing and manufacturing advanced defense technologies.

 

[NSR]

Very true, Sir. Very true.
However, the ASW-SWC and the NGOPVs will not carry these heavyweight torpedoes. The ASW-SWC will carry lightweight TAL Shyena torpedoes, while the NGOPVs will not carry ASW torpedoes at all.

That said, we do have the NGMV and NGC corvettes, Project 17B frigates, MRSV, and other projects in the pipeline, besides all our current and planned submarines (which I haven't even factored into the calculations yet since it isn't entirely clear which of our submarines can fit the Varunastra).

Unless there is some new variant in the works which is expected to be procured in significantly larger numbers, we probably need to scale up our inventory by 6-10 times.

I remember reading a story about India sending some kind of submarine torpedoes for testing in France Naval Systems torpedo testing facility.
Perhaps they developed a modified version of Varunastra for Scorpene submarines.

I personally prefer that PM ask Italian PM to bury all the past armemtns scandals on a win-win and no one loses deal to cover all those scandals.
And then PM should resurrect the old Blackshark torpedo contract with the more latest Advanced Blackshark torpedo, and then make a joint research and development of $25 millions each to develop even more advanced next generation torpedoes on 50:50 IP and TOT sharings like Brahmos missile.
Both countries and navies will benefit this way.

Also, India can build very sophisticated next generation Naval radars for Indian warships after buying some and investing to develop together like Blackshark.

Italian FREMM Frigates are world class so they can provide some knowhow for our Indian next generation P-18 Destroyer and Frages warships.

Win-win will make Italian PM to move forward quickly as their economy is in dire situation.

My two paisa worth.

 

[Sandeep]

The ban on the manufacturer of BLACK SHARK Torpedos was removed . Also ban on DENEL Gun manufacturer is also removed. They can participate in any tender. But as you rightly said India is yet to place any order with these companies.

The ban was removed and they can now apply for tenders. But the main important point is that the company doesn’t get a free pass on their previous corruption deal and the criminal investigation isn’t stopped or delayed.