Mazagon Docks Unveils Indigenous Stealth Midget Submarine, 'Arowana' Today

Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders Limited (MDL) made a splash on its 250th Foundation Day in Mumbai with the launch of the 'Arowana' – the prototype of India's first fully homegrown midget submarine.

This momentous occasion, presided over by Defence Secretary Shri Giridhar Aramane, marks a significant stride in India's journey towards self-reliance in naval defense.

A Leap Forward in Underwater Warfare​

The Arowana is more than just a submarine; it's a symbol of MDL's commitment to indigenous innovation. This cutting-edge vessel is designed as a fully equipped stealth platform, minimizing acoustic and electromagnetic signatures for enhanced operational secrecy.

The integration of advanced technologies like SONAR, GPS, Inertial Navigation System, and top-notch communication systems ensures the Arowana will be a formidable force in underwater warfare.

Mission-Ready for Land and Sea​

Midget submarines like the Arowana are purpose-built for specialized missions. With a capacity for a pilot, co-pilot, and a combat swimmer team, along with their gear, the Arowana is ready to tackle both land and sea missions. The pilot and co-pilot are often part of the swimmer team, ensuring a cohesive and efficient unit for underwater operations.

MDL's Modernization Drive​

The Arowana is just one part of MDL's ambitious modernization program. The shipbuilder is upgrading its infrastructure and facilities to meet the nation's growing maritime needs.

The upcoming MS-X02A Midget Submarine, a successor to the Arowana, is expected to be an even more advanced stealth platform, further solidifying India's position in submarine technology.

What's Next for Arowana and MDL?​

While the prototype launch is a major milestone, the Arowana project is still in its early stages. Rigorous testing and evaluation lie ahead to ensure the submarine's operational readiness. If successful, the Arowana could pave the way for a fleet of indigenous underwater vehicles that will significantly bolster India's naval capabilities.

MDL's 250th Foundation Day celebrations also included the inauguration of new infrastructure acquired from the Mumbai Port Authority, the commissioning of Electric Boats, and the release of a commemorative coin. A day-long technical seminar further highlighted the company's commitment to advancing shipbuilding technology.

In conclusion, the launch of the Arowana is a proud moment for MDL and a testament to India's growing prowess in the defense sector. It signals a new era of indigenous innovation and self-reliance in naval technology, a development that is sure to capture attention on the global stage.

 

[Anil Kumar]

Excellent, marvellous, congratulations to MDL team

 

[Sandeep]

This is very good news that they have developed a small submarine as it can be used for many and different type of missions. It would be very good if it can launch any light torpedo along with the ability to deploy mines or explosives to sink the enemy's naval fleet before they can start a war.

India should also use this submarine to test any new technology, equipment, parts and software like engines, communication or sonar etc. We should also look at developing a no metal or no magnetic submarine material along with external rubber pads to absorb any vibration or noisy parts of the submarine like around the engines section.

 

[The_rED_dEVIL]

Excellent, marvellous, congratulations to MDL team

Of course. And yet nothing on radar about HSL's midget submarines that were on order. Indian needs several midget subs and USVs for special ops. Hope these will be ordered.