India is expected to finalize a major defence agreement with Germany next month for the construction of six advanced Type-214 diesel-electric submarines under the ambitious Project 75(I) programme. The deal, estimated to be worth over ₹90,000 crore, will be executed under the government's Make in India initiative through a strategic partnership between Germany's ThyssenKrupp Marine Systems (TKMS) and Mumbai-based Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders Limited (MDL).
According to defence officials, the new submarines will feature Air Independent Propulsion (AIP) technology, allowing them to remain submerged for significantly longer periods than conventional diesel-electric submarines. This capability enhances stealth, endurance, and operational effectiveness during extended underwater missions.
The Type-214 submarines are expected to be equipped with six 533 mm torpedo tubes capable of firing heavyweight torpedoes, anti-ship missiles such as the Exocet, and are also expected to integrate advanced indigenous weapon systems, subject to final configuration approvals. Their HY-100 steel hull offers a low magnetic signature, making them harder to detect by enemy sonar and magnetic sensors.
Project 75(I) is intended to strengthen India's underwater combat fleet amid evolving maritime security challenges in the Indo-Pacific region. The programme follows the successful construction of six Kalvari-class Scorpene submarines, developed in collaboration with France under the original Project 75.
The acquisition is expected to significantly enhance the Indian Navy's deterrence capability, improve indigenous defence manufacturing, and deepen strategic defence cooperation between India and Germany. Defence experts believe the project will play a crucial role in maintaining India's maritime preparedness and securing its strategic interests across the Indian Ocean.
