In a development that will not only boost its capabilities but also cement India’s position as a submarine building nation, the Indian Navy received the third Scorpene Submarine of Project P-75 – to be christened as INS Karanj – from the state-run Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders Limited (MDL).
With the delivery of Karanj, MDL has lived up to its reputation as one of India’s leading shipyards with capacity and capability to meet requirements and aspirations of the Indian Navy in all dimensions.
The delivery of three Submarines namely, Khanderi, Kalvari and now Karanj, reaffirmed India’s membership in the exclusive group of submarine building nations.
The fourth submarine Vela launched May 6, 2019, has commenced her sea trials, while the fifth submarine Vagir –– launched on November 12 2020 — has commenced her harbour sea trials whilst the sixth submarine is presently in the advance stage of outfitting.
Two SSK submarines built by MDL in 1992 and 1994 are still in service today, after more than 25 years a clear testimony of MDL’s quality of construction.
The state-of-the-art technology utilized in the rebuilt Scorpene has ensured superior stealth features (such as advanced acoustic absorption techniques, low radiated noise levels, hydro-dynamically optimised shape etc.) and the ability to launch an attack on the enemy using precision guided weapons. The attack can be launched with both torpedoes and tube launched anti-ship missiles, whilst underwater or on surface.
The stealth of this potent platform is enhanced by the special attention provided to her characteristic underwater signatures. These stealth features make her invulnerable, unmatched by most submarines.
Scorpene submarines can undertake multifarious types of missions i.e Anti-Surface warfare, Anti-Submarine warfare, Intelligence gathering, Mine Laying, Area Surveillance etc.
The Submarine is designed to operate in all theatres of operation, showcasing interoperability with other components of a Naval Task Force.
It is a potent platform, marking a transformational shift in submarine operations. MDL also achieved expertise in submarine refits by successfully executing the Medium Refit-cum-Upgradation of all the four SSK class submarines of the Indian Navy. It is presently carrying out the Medium Refit and Life Certification of INS Shishumar, the first SSK submarine.
MDL has always been at the forefront of the nation’s progressive indigenous warship building programme.With the construction of the Leander and Godavari class frigates, Khukri class Corvettes, Missile Boats, Delhi and Kolkata class Destroyers, Shivalik class Stealth Frigates, the SSK submarines and the Scorpene submarine under its belt, the history of modern day MDL almost maps the history of indigenous warship building in India.