France’s Naval Group has presented a significantly enhanced proposition to the Indian Navy, introducing the next-generation Scorpène® Evolved submarine.
Representing a major technological upgrade over the current Kalvari-class fleet, this offer is strategically aimed at filling the operational void between the recently concluded Project-75 and the future Project-75I.
Valued at an estimated ₹36,000 crore for three additional vessels, this follow-on order is structured to keep India’s existing domestic submarine manufacturing infrastructure active and productive.
The defining feature of the Scorpène Evolved is its complete transition to Lithium-Ion Battery (LiB) propulsion, phasing out the legacy lead-acid batteries utilised in older platforms.
This modernisation radically improves the vessel’s operational characteristics, specifically its stealth and overall endurance.
Unlike older diesel-electric models that must frequently approach the surface to run generators, this new variant promises sustained underwater operations, boasting a projected mission endurance of up to 80 days, with 78 of those spent submerged.
Beyond extended deployments, Lithium-Ion technology brings the distinct tactical advantage of ultra-fast charging capabilities.
This rapid recharge cycle drastically minimizes the time the submarine must spend at periscope depth—its most vulnerable state.
In modern naval warfare scenarios involving sophisticated anti-submarine tracking, this translates directly to increased survivability.
Furthermore, removing the bulky traditional Air Independent Propulsion (AIP) systems frees up internal space while still delivering top-tier underwater performance.
According to Naval Group, the extraordinary energy density of modern LiB systems renders older fuel-cell AIP modules unnecessary. The absence of an AIP system removes heavy mechanical components, pumps, and other moving parts.
Consequently, this design reduction significantly lowers the submarine's acoustic signature, making it exceptionally quiet and difficult to detect, even during high-speed tactical manoeuvres.
To complement the advanced battery system, the Scorpène Evolved incorporates a Permanent Magnet Motor in place of a standard electric drive.
This next-generation motor technology yields higher energy efficiency and superior power distribution, all while further minimizing internal noise across various operational speeds.
For India's strategic defence posture, the most critical addition is the proposed Vertical Launch System (VLS).
The French shipbuilder has designed a custom hull extension, or "plug," specifically for this new order, capable of housing the indigenous BrahMos-NG supersonic cruise missiles.
If adopted, the Indian Navy would become the sole operator of a Scorpène variant globally equipped with a dedicated vertical strike capability, granting the fleet unprecedented offensive reach.
This procurement aligns perfectly with India’s long-term industrial and defence strategy.
The proposal for three additional submarines is distinct from the larger ₹72,000 crore Project-75I initiative, which is currently being spearheaded by Germany's TKMS.
By awarding this follow-on contract to Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders Limited (MDL) in Mumbai, the Indian Navy ensures that the highly skilled workforce and supply chains developed during the assembly of the first six Kalvari-class submarines—ending with the INS Vagsheer—are not lost to an industrial lull.
A central pillar of the pitch is a strong commitment to self-reliance, with indigenous content projected to surpass the 60 percent mark.
A vital component of this localization effort involves utilizing Indian-made Lithium-Ion battery cells.
Domestic manufacturers, such as Exide, are already involved in certification processes. Successfully localizing this power system would be a monumental achievement for India's domestic naval engineering sector.
Finally, Naval Group is utilizing its recent successful bid with the Indonesian Navy—which recently ordered two locally built Scorpène Evolved submarines via PT PAL—as a foundation for the Indian offer.
By utilizing a proven and standardized blueprint, the shipbuilder is reducing developmental risks, ensuring that the Indian Navy receives a platform that is both highly advanced and operationally reliable.
