Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders Limited (MDL) formally delivered the Indian Navy’s sixth and last Scorpene-class submarine, INS Vaghsheer, on January 9, 2025. The Project 75 program, which started with a contract for six submarines constructed with French assistance in 2005, comes to an end with this milestone.
Since its April 20, 2022, launch, INS Vaghsheer has undergone a number of sea trials to guarantee its operational readiness. Propulsion, weapons, and sensors were among the systems that underwent extensive testing during these trials.
The submarine is built to carry out a number of tasks, including area surveillance, intelligence collection, anti-surface and anti-submarine warfare, and more. It has cutting-edge technology, such as tube-launched anti-ship missiles and long-range guided torpedoes.
Several indigenous systems are incorporated into Vaghsheer to improve its capabilities. Among its notable features are improvements in its primary batteries and satellite communication systems, as well as an air conditioning plant and internal communication system that were developed domestically.
With the delivery of INS Vaghsheer, India solidifies its standing as one of the few countries with submarine construction capabilities. Additionally, it supports the government’s “Aatmanirbhar Bharat” campaign, which aims to encourage self-reliance in defense production.
Now that Project 75 is finished, focus is turning to Project 75(I), which intends to build six more submarines with air-independent propulsion (AIP) systems. As the Indian Navy looks to modernize its fleet in response to regional security dynamics, this project is anticipated to greatly improve its operational capabilities.
In addition to reflecting continuous efforts to improve domestic defense production, the successful delivery of INS Vaghsheer represents a significant step in strengthening India’s maritime defense capabilities.
