A significant advancement in India's naval capabilities is on the horizon, as the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) has announced the readiness of an indigenously developed Air-Independent Propulsion (AIP) system.
This cutting-edge technology is poised to revolutionize the operational endurance of conventional submarines, allowing them to remain submerged for extended periods.
The AIP system, a product of collaboration between DRDO and private sector partners like L&T, has successfully undergone rigorous trials, including a shore-based demonstration for the Indian Navy. Notably, DRDO has opted for a fuel cell-based AIP design, prioritizing safety and performance over other globally available systems.
The integration of this AIP system is scheduled to commence next year, with the first submarine, INS Kalvari, slated for retrofitting during its major refit in September 2024. This intricate process involves bisecting the submarine and inserting a new AIP section, necessitating collaboration with the original manufacturer, France's Naval Group.
The successful implementation of this AIP technology holds the potential to transform the capabilities of the Indian Navy's submarine fleet. By extending the submerged endurance of conventional submarines from a few days to nearly two weeks, the AIP system significantly enhances their stealth and operational effectiveness. This is especially crucial in the vast expanse of the open seas, where prolonged submersion can provide a strategic advantage.
Suman Roy Choudhury, the program director for AIP at the Naval Materials Research Laboratory (NMRL), confirmed the integration timeline and highlighted the potential for extending this technology to the remaining five Kalvari class submarines.
Moreover, ongoing negotiations for three additional Kalvari class submarines could see them equipped with this AIP system from the outset, further bolstering the Navy's underwater capabilities.
The inauguration of an AIP Integration and Testing facility at L&T's AM Naik Heavy Engineering Complex by DRDO chief Samir Kamat underscores the commitment to advancing indigenous defense technologies.
This facility will play a pivotal role in manufacturing and testing the AIP system over the next year, ensuring its readiness for integration into submarines at Mazagaon Dockyard Limited (MDL).
This landmark development not only strengthens India's defense capabilities but also highlights the nation's growing prowess in indigenous technological innovation.
As the AIP system becomes operational, it promises to reshape the landscape of underwater warfare and solidify India's position as a major player in the global naval arena.
