India Launches First Scorpene Submarine

Indian Navy’s first Scorpene submarine has been launched in Mumbai.

The diesel-electric vessel INS Kalvari was built by Mazagon Dock Limited in collaboration with France’s DCNS, and it will now undergo sea trials before being formally handed over to the Navy in September next year.

It is the first of a series of six vessels due to be operational by 2020.

“We want to build a ‘Blue Water Navy’ which can survive despite operating across the deep ocean waters without any problems. We will ensure that we become one such navy,” said India’s Defence Minister Manohar Parrikar.

The Scorpene is capable of firing torpedoes and anti-ship missiles whilst underwater or on surface. It is designed to operate in all theatres including the tropics. 

The submarine was first scheduled to be handed over in 2012. Parrikar has said the delay is mainly due to difficulties in procuring material from foreign vendors. 

Mazagon is expected to be one of the shipyards bidding for the P-75I project that calls for six more locally-built submarines.