India's selection of ThyssenKrupp Marine Systems (TKMS) over Spain's Navantia for the Project 75-India (P75I) submarine program has generated considerable interest within defence circles. This decision underscores India's focus on advanced stealth technology and enhanced maritime capabilities.
TKMS is offering a next-generation submarine design featuring a faceted hull, incorporating Low Observable (LO) characteristics. This design represents a significant advancement in stealth technology, effectively making it a fifth-generation diesel-electric attack submarine (SSK).
The unique hull shape is designed to deflect sonar signals, significantly reducing the submarine's acoustic and radar signatures, thereby making it more difficult to detect by contemporary anti-submarine warfare (ASW) systems. This innovative approach distinguishes it from traditional submarine designs.
This advanced SSK class, often termed the “stealth version,” integrates state-of-the-art technologies across its propulsion, sensor, and combat systems.
Germany's own order for these submarines, with the first unit currently under construction at TKMS's Kiel shipyard, further validates the design's technological maturity and reliability.
Several key factors influenced India's choice of TKMS over Navantia, including TKMS's proven experience in delivering submarines equipped with air-independent propulsion (AIP) systems. AIP technology is crucial for extending underwater endurance, a critical operational requirement.
TKMS has also tailored its design to meet India's specific operational needs, providing a strategic advantage in the Indian Ocean region, where stealth and extended submerged operations are paramount.
AIP systems allow submarines to stay submerged for longer periods, increasing their operational effectiveness and reducing their vulnerability. While Navantia also offered a competitive bid, TKMS's demonstrated expertise in AIP and stealth technology appears to have been decisive.
The P75I selection also aligns with India's emphasis on self-reliance in defence production. TKMS has committed to transferring technology, which will bolster India's indigenous submarine construction capabilities.
The submarines will be built at Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders Limited (MDL) in collaboration with TKMS. This partnership ensures that India not only acquires advanced naval assets but also develops the expertise necessary for future domestic submarine development.
This decision is viewed by defence analysts as a demonstration of India's strategic foresight in naval warfare. The addition of these advanced submarines to the Indian Navy's fleet will significantly improve India's maritime security posture and enhance its power projection capabilities within the region. This acquisition strengthens India's position at the forefront of naval technology and reinforces its strategic deterrence capabilities.
