The Indian Navy is preparing to modernize its submarine fleet, planning to gradually retire its Shishumar-class submarines starting around 2033. This transition will coincide with the introduction of new, technologically superior submarines built under Project-75I and additional Kalvari-class vessels.
The Indian Navy currently operates four Shishumar-class submarines. These vessels, based on the German Type 209 design from ThyssenKrupp Marine Systems (TKMS), were commissioned between 1986 and 1994 and have served as a crucial component of India's maritime defense for decades.
While TKMS, the original equipment manufacturer, has guaranteed support for the Shishumar-class for another 15 years, including ongoing upgrades and recently awarded contracts to improve their capabilities, the Navy is looking toward the future.
A significant upgrade to India's underwater capabilities will come with Project-75I. This project involves the construction of six advanced submarines equipped with Air Independent Propulsion (AIP) systems, which allow them to stay submerged for longer durations than conventional diesel-electric submarines. The first of these submarines is expected to join the fleet in 2033.
Project 75(I) is a key part of the Indian Navy's 30-year submarine building plan, which aims for a fleet of 24 submarines. The project has faced some delays, but the ultimate goal is to significantly enhance India's indigenous submarine construction capabilities and reduce reliance on foreign suppliers.
In addition to Project-75I, the Navy intends to order three more Kalvari-class submarines, which are based on the French Scorpene design. These orders are expected to be finalized soon, with deliveries anticipated around the same time as the Project-75I vessels.
The Kalvari class submarines, the first of which, INS Kalvari, was commissioned in 2017, have already demonstrated significant capabilities. Adding more of these will further strengthen the Navy's fleet.
As the new submarines enter service, the Navy plans to utilize the Shishumar-class vessels for training purposes. This strategic approach will ensure the seamless transfer of expertise and operational experience to the crews of the newer submarines before the older models are decommissioned.
The phased retirement of the Shishumar-class is expected to begin after 2035. This also depends upon how quickly the new submarines can be designed, built, tested, and operationally deployed.
