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The Indian Navy is reportedly re-evaluating its submarine acquisition strategy, considering a shift away from procuring three additional French-designed Scorpene-class submarines.
Instead, a more ambitious plan to build six advanced German-designed stealth submarines, equipped with next-generation technology, is gaining preference to bolster India's underwater combat capabilities.
This potential strategic pivot involves cancelling the follow-on order for Scorpene submarines from Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders Limited (MDL) and fast-tracking the larger 'Project 75-India' (P-75I).
The new project, estimated to cost over ₹70,000 crore, would see the construction of six highly advanced diesel-electric submarines at the same shipyard in Mumbai, prioritising superior underwater endurance to counter growing naval threats in the Indian Ocean Region (IOR).
The core of this decision lies in the cutting-edge Air-Independent Propulsion (AIP) technology offered by the German contender.
AIP systems allow conventional submarines to remain submerged for much longer periods—potentially for weeks—without needing to surface to recharge their batteries, thereby significantly enhancing their stealth and operational range.
This is seen as a crucial capability upgrade for the Indian Navy's ageing and depleting conventional submarine fleet.
Under the P-75I initiative, the German firm ThyssenKrupp Marine Systems (TKMS) has emerged as the frontrunner with its Type 212/214 platform, which features a proven fuel-cell AIP system.
The mega-deal, which received clearance from the Cabinet Committee on Security in August 2025, is structured as a strategic partnership. It will involve a complete transfer of technology, the use of locally produced steel, and a phased indigenisation plan over 15 years, with MDL serving as the lead integrator alongside private sector defence major Larsen & Toubro (L&T).
The proposed submarines are expected to displace between 1,800 and 2,000 tons and will possess stealth characteristics comparable to nuclear-powered submarines.
Their arsenal will include advanced torpedoes, anti-ship missiles, and land-attack cruise missiles.
The construction timeline aims for a start in 2026-27, with the first submarine scheduled for delivery by 2032-33, providing a steady induction to maintain combat readiness.
This strategic recalibration is a direct response to the evolving maritime security environment in the IOR.
China's increasing deployment of its advanced Type 039A submarines in the region, along with Pakistan's induction of Chinese-origin Yuan-class submarines equipped with AIP technology, has created an urgent need for the Indian Navy to enhance its underwater deterrence.
The extended submerged patrol capability of the P-75I submarines will enable covert operations and surveillance over critical sea lanes, from the Andaman and Nicobar Islands to strategic chokepoints like the Malacca Strait.
While the project promises to boost India's indigenous defence manufacturing ecosystem and potentially create over 10,000 jobs, it is not without risks.
Past controversies involving foreign defence firms and the potential for delays, similar to the eight-year overrun experienced with the Scorpene programme, remain key concerns.
However, if executed successfully, P-75I will work in synergy with India’s indigenous nuclear-powered attack submarine (SSN) programme, known as Project 75 Alpha, to create a formidable and multi-layered underwater defence capability for the nation.
