A potential replacement for the Indian Navy's aging fleet of Kilo-class submarines has emerged. An unnamed Navy official revealed that the Spanish-designed S-80 Plus class submarine is a strong contender to fulfill this need.
The Kilo-class submarines, initially acquired by India in the 1980s, have been a backbone of the country's maritime defense capabilities for many years. While extensive maintenance has kept them operational, their time is drawing to a close, and the Navy is actively seeking replacements. The Project-75I tender aims to induct six new stealth submarines as a long-term replacement.
The S-80 Plus offers several compelling advantages for the Indian Navy. Its larger submerged displacement compared to competitors like the German U-214 allows it to carry more fuel and undertake extended missions – vital for patrolling India's expansive maritime borders. The Kilo-class submarines also possess a similar submerged displacement.
Sources indicate the S-80 Plus may also be more cost-effective than comparable submarines. While exact pricing is confidential, industry speculation suggests it could be a more budget-friendly choice than the U-214.
India has an established relationship with German submarine manufacturer TKMS, having acquired T-209 submarines in the past. However, the S-80 Plus represents a new generation of submarines while potentially providing superior capabilities. Interestingly, TKMS lost out on Project-75 to a French-Spanish consortium because their Scorpène-class submarines were much less expensive than German offerings.
Additionally, India's current operation of Scorpène-class submarines (a Franco-Spanish design) gives the S-80 Plus an extra edge. Existing familiarity with Navantia, one of the shipyards responsible for the S-80 Plus, may streamline potential procurement and logistical processes.
Disclaimer: It is important to note that this report is based on statements from an unnamed source and details of submarine procurements are often shrouded in secrecy.
