India is reportedly moving closer to finalising a major submarine agreement with Germany after years of delays and negotiations. The proposed deal, under Project 75(I), could soon be placed before the Cabinet Committee on Security for final approval, according to reports.
The project, which dates back to the late 1990s, has faced repeated delays because of technical requirements, commercial negotiations and discussions over technology transfer. Under the proposed agreement, six advanced submarines based on Germany’s Type 214 design will be built entirely in India. Germany is expected to provide the design and technology, while around 60 percent of the submarines will be manufactured using indigenous components.
The project is estimated to cost around ₹70,000 crore, potentially making it India’s largest defence contract to date. The submarines are reportedly expected to be delivered to the Indian Navy by 2032. The programme is also being viewed as a significant boost to the government’s “Make in India” initiative by increasing domestic manufacturing and technological capabilities in the defence sector.
The Indian Navy has been seeking additional conventional submarines for years amid concerns over its ageing underwater fleet. A significant number of existing submarines are approaching the later stages of their operational lives, increasing the urgency for modern replacements.
The proposed German partnership also comes amid growing strategic competition in the Indian Ocean. China has significantly expanded its naval presence and capabilities in the region, prompting India to strengthen its underwater surveillance and deterrence capabilities.
Defence experts believe the six new submarines could substantially enhance India’s ability to monitor and respond to emerging maritime security challenges in the Indian Ocean.
