The Ministry of Defence (MoD) signed two contracts on Monday, worth a combined Rs 2,867 crore, for constructing an Air Independent Propulsion (AIP) plug for the Defence R&D Organisation’s (DRDO’s) AIP system and its integration onboard Indian submarines.
Summary of MoD Contracts for Submarine Enhancements
| Details | Description |
|---|---|
| Date of Signing | December 30, 2024 |
| Total Value of Contracts | ₹2,867 crore |
| Purpose | Enhancing the firepower and endurance of Kalvari-class submarines of the Indian Navy. |
Breakdown of Contracts
| Contract | Details |
|---|---|
| AIP Plug Construction & Integration | Signed With: Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders Ltd, Mumbai (MDL) Value: ₹1,990 crore Purpose: Enhances endurance of submarines with DRDO-developed Air Independent Propulsion (AIP) technology. Employment Generated: ~300,000 man-days. |
| EHWT Integration | Signed With: Naval Group, France Value: ₹877 crore Purpose: Integrates Electronic Heavy Weight Torpedo (EHWT) to improve firepower capabilities. Collaboration: Indian Navy, DRDO, and Naval Group. |
Key Highlights of the AIP Plug
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Technology Developer | DRDO |
| Purpose | Enhances endurance of conventional submarines |
| Impact | Improved operational capabilities of submarines |
| Employment | Generates significant job opportunities (300,000 man-days). |
Key Highlights of EHWT Integration
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Technology | Electronic Heavy Weight Torpedo (EHWT) |
| Developer | DRDO, in collaboration with Naval Group, France |
| Impact | Greatly augments the firepower of Kalvari-class submarines. |
Official Presence at Signing
| Officials Present | Details |
|---|---|
| Defence Secretary | Shri Rajesh Kumar Singh |
| Organizations Involved | Ministry of Defence (MoD), MDL, Naval Group, DRDO, Indian Navy. |
These contracts underline India’s efforts to enhance its naval capabilities through indigenous and collaborative projects. The integration of AIP technology and EHWT will significantly boost the operational performance of Kalvari-class submarines, contributing to the strategic strength of the Indian Navy.
