Navantia and TKMS Emerge as Frontrunners in Indian Navy's P-75I Submarine Bid

The Indian Navy has reached a significant milestone in its Project 75-India (P-75I) submarine acquisition program with the completion of the Technical Evaluation Committee (TEC) stage.

This marks a major step forward in India's ambitious push to modernize its underwater fleet and bolster its maritime defence capabilities.

The Contenders​

Two global defence giants have emerged as frontrunners in the multi-billion dollar contract: Navantia of Spain, with its upgraded S-80 Plus class submarines, and ThyssenKrupp Marine Systems (TKMS) of Germany, expected to offer its proven Type 214 submarines.

Both companies bring a wealth of experience and technological prowess to the table.

Navantia's S-80 Plus boasts enhancements including a larger hull for extended endurance and the potential for Air Independent Propulsion (AIP), a critical technology for extended underwater operations.

TKMS's Type 214 has a reputation for reliability and stealth, with a track record of successful deployments by navies around the world.

High Stakes: The Next Phases​

With the technical aspects cleared, the P-75I program now enters a delicate phase of commercial negotiations. The shortlisted companies will hammer out contract terms with the Indian Navy, balancing technological requirements and financial considerations.

Upon finalizing negotiations, Navantia and TKMS will submit their final price bids. The Indian Navy will then meticulously evaluate the proposals, with the contract awarded to the bidder offering the most optimal combination of technical capability and cost-effectiveness.

Strategic Importance of the P-75I​

The P-75I program holds immense strategic value for India. The six new submarines are set to considerably strengthen India's underwater deterrence and power projection capabilities in the increasingly contested Indian Ocean region.

These submarines will be vital in safeguarding India's maritime interests, protecting its vast coastline, and ensuring the security of crucial sea lanes.

A Complex and Competitive Landscape​

The successful bidder of the P-75I project will not only secure a lucrative contract but also forge a long-term strategic partnership with India. The outcome will have ramifications for the regional naval balance of power.

Furthermore, the project adheres to India's "Make in India" initiative, requiring the winning bidder to manufacture the submarines in India with a domestic partner, providing a major boost to the country's indigenous shipbuilding industry.

Conclusion​

The Indian Navy's completion of the P-75I technical evaluation is a testament to the nation's commitment to naval modernization. The coming stages promise to be intense, demonstrating the intricate interplay of technology, diplomacy, and economic strategy inherent in major defence acquisitions.

The P-75I program remains a key element in India's evolving maritime posture, shaping the future security landscape of the Indian Ocean.

 

[Anant]

Excellent news. Now one can sincerely hope the contract negotiations and bid submission is done by the end of the year, so we can announce a winner by March 2025.

 

[RG]

Hope only Private player builts its, let MDL build I-76 and maintenance of scorpene and other existing classes

 

[GMR]

At last some progress, in fact most crucial part is over 👍👍👍 hope IN fast track the process & concludes the contract by year end..

 

[Apocalypse gupta]

Excellent news. Now one can sincerely hope the contract negotiations and bid submission is done by the end of the year, so we can announce a winner by March 2025.

I believe that after elections lots of decisions will be taken. The govt has been hesitant to take major procurement decisions because the opposition khangress starts screaming scam, like it did in rafale case, and finally supreme court had to intervene. Generally first year after election, lots of major decisions are taken.

 

[Anant]

I believe that after elections lots of decisions will be taken. The govt has been hesitant to take major procurement decisions because the opposition khangress starts screaming scam, like it did in rafale case, and finally supreme court had to intervene. Generally first year after election, lots of major decisions are taken.

Fair point. If that is the case, then as the saying goes, "Aapke muh mein ghee shakkar."

 

[desigandu]

Great, let us finalize this quickly after elections, including MRFA, 3rd carrier, AMCA, TEDBF, P-18, P-17Cs etc...Also India should think about a 5 year non-lapsable $100B fund for Defense modernization over and above the annual Defense budget...This extra money should only be focused on long term Defense projects (AMCA, TEDBF, 3 Carrier, P-75Is and P-76s etc...) so there is continuity and we avoid delays due to elections and other hinderances.

 

[desigandu]

Excellent news. Now one can sincerely hope the contract negotiations and bid submission is done by the end of the year, so we can announce a winner by March 2025.

Yes, and let us ensure that we get maximum TOT so from P-76 onwards India becomes fully atmanirbhar in SSKs...

 

[Sandeep]

Finally some progress has been made. Everyone kept on blaming the government for the delays when it was the navy itself which was taking ages to finalise the details. It's most likely that Germany will win the contract but will it be through the bidding process, special vehicle purpose or as a government to government deal which will be interesting to see. Once the contract is signed India should get the maximum amount of technology and local production it can get but in critical technology and equipment as well. Also we need to speed up the construction pace as it will easily take at least 10 years or longer to finish making them so we need to increase the number of workers and employ a day and night shift to increase production and reduce costs.

 

[dheerajdelhi .]

How it was completed so soon. They should gave taken 3 more years for evaluation, then another 3 years for approvals and then another 6 years before it comes in the hands of navy. Sadly and eventually guess that's what is going yo happen.