Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders Limited (MDL) has achieved a significant milestone in India's defence indigenisation efforts with the delivery of the final Scorpene-class submarine, 'Vaghsheer', to the Indian Navy. This marks the successful completion of Project 75, under which MDL constructed six Scorpene-class submarines in collaboration with France's Naval Group.
The acceptance documents were signed on Thursday by Sanjeev Singhal, Chairman-cum-Managing Director (CMD) of MDL, and Rear Admiral R Adhisrinivasan, Chief Staff Officer (Technical) of the Indian Navy, in the presence of senior officials from both organizations.
"The delivery of Vaghsheer is a significant milestone in MDL's capabilities," stated Singhal, emphasizing the project's contribution to the Indian Navy's operational readiness and the government's "Make in India" initiative.
Vaghsheer boasts advanced weapon systems and enhanced operational capabilities, further strengthening India's underwater combat prowess. Its induction into the Navy marks the culmination of MDL's contractual commitments under Project 75, solidifying its position as the only shipyard in India with the proven capability to build advanced conventional submarines.
Rear Admiral Adhisrinivasan praised the delivery as a testament to MDL's professionalism and expertise in constructing complex war platforms, adding that it significantly enhances the Indian Navy's might and strengthens India's maritime security.
The completion of Project 75 is a major achievement for India's indigenous defence industry. The Scorpene-class submarines, built with a significant level of local content, enhance the Indian Navy's underwater capabilities and contribute to the nation's strategic autonomy. This project also showcases the successful collaboration between the public and private sectors in bolstering India's defence capabilities.
