Indian Navy Receives 6th Vaghsheer Submarine

On January 9, 2025, the last Scorpene class submarine, Vaghsheer, was delivered to the Indian Navy. Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders Limited (MDL) offered this submarine to the Indian Navy and Vaghsheer will be commissioned along with 2 warships. The delivery of Vaghsheer was noted as a significant step that further strengthens India’s submarine building capacity.

Features of Vaghsheer

Unlike the previous five submarines delivered under Project P-75, Vaghsheer is equipped with a range of indigenous technologies. The submarine is powered by an indigenously developed air conditioning system, internal communication and broadcasting system, main batteries and Ku-Band SATCOM. These features enable Vaghsheer to respond more effectively to modern warfare requirements.

These submarines, manufactured by MDL, have been built under license in collaboration with the French Naval Group. The Vaghsheer, delivered to the Indian Navy, stands as a major step for India as it strengthens its submarine-building capabilities.

India's Submarine Building Capacity Increases

According to MDL, the delivery of Vaghsheer has further consolidated India in the exclusive group of submarine-building countries. Today, India has a significant position in submarine construction and has demonstrated this capacity with the Kalvari, Khanderi, Karanj, Vela, Vagir and Vaghsheer submarines. MDL has the capacity to build 10 main warships and 11 submarines at a time and aims to increase this capacity further.

Scorpene Class Technologies

Scorpene-class submarines offer high stealth capabilities with advanced acoustic absorption techniques and low radiated noise levels. This allows Vaghsheer and other Scorpene-class submarines to be used effectively in covert operations. The hydrodynamically optimized design increases the submarine’s speed and maneuverability, enabling it to operate with high efficiency underwater.

In addition, these submarines can launch underwater or surface attacks with torpedoes and tube-fired anti-ship missiles. This versatility allows Vaghsheer to perform effectively in a wide range of missions.

Versatile Mission Capabilities

Vaghsheer can perform a wide range of missions, not just underwater warfare, but also surface warfare, intelligence gathering, area surveillance, etc. Equipped with Integrated Platform Management System (IPMS) and Combat Management System (CMS), the submarine is designed to perform joint operational missions by demonstrating interoperability with other elements of the Indian Navy.

India's Defence Force

The delivery of Vaghsheer is a significant milestone that reinforces India’s defence prowess and submarine-building capabilities on a global scale. Both the use of indigenous technologies and the development of submarine-building capabilities are part of concrete steps towards strengthening India’s military infrastructure. These developments not only enhance India’s regional defence prowess but also consolidate its position in the global maritime strategy.

The delivery of Vaghsheer symbolises India’s advancement in submarine technology and increased defence capabilities. With this new submarine, the Indian Navy will not only have a stronger and more effective naval force, but will also continue to play a significant role in the context of global security.