The Defence Research and Development Organization’s (DRDO) Project-76 plan is to create a domestic class of conventional diesel-electric submarines with a strong emphasis on defense technological self-reliance.
As part of India’s effort to strengthen its defense capabilities domestically, the P-76 submarines are equipped with a number of cutting-edge innovations that are intended to increase operational efficacy and independence.
Weapons, missiles, battle management systems, sonars, communications, and electronic warfare suites are among the equipment and materials that the project seeks to source 90% to 95% domestically.
The P-76 submarines’ integration of an AIP system is a noteworthy characteristic. This technique improves stealth and operational endurance by enabling the submarines to function for extended periods of time without surfacing. The phosphoric acid-based AIP system that DRDO is developing will allow for extended underwater operations without requiring ambient oxygen.
With an anticipated displacement of between 3,000 and 4,000 tons, the P-76 submarines are appropriate for
Lithium-ion batteries, which offer more energy density and efficiency than conventional lead-acid batteries, will be used in the submarines. Longer missions and enhanced underwater operations performance are supported by this development.
The effectiveness of onboard weapons will be improved by the P-76’s indigenous weapon control systems, which combine sophisticated targeting and combat management skills.
The first prototype should be ready by 2030, with the design phase anticipated to be finished by the end of 2025. This schedule shows a dedication to quick development while maintaining a high level of technology integration.
To reach the lofty target of 90% to 95% indigenous content for the P-76 submarines, DRDO must overcome a number of obstacles.
The development of domestic capabilities is hampered by the reluctance of foreign defense industries to share vital technologies with India. The research and development activities required to achieve high levels of self-reliance in defense manufacturing are slowed down by this reluctance.
Financial resources are still scarce in comparison to the substantial demands for R&D and manufacturing, even though the budgetary allocation for DRDO has increased. Delays may result, and the entire ability to develop and produce domestically may be impacted.
The majority of the employees at DRDO have less formal education, which has an impact on the organization’s capacity to do research. Advanced degrees are essential for high-level research and development, yet a sizable percentage of its scientists do not possess them. Innovation and the successful completion of challenging projects may be hampered by this lack of skilled workers.
Bureaucratic obstacles, such as delays in licensing and procurement, might cause the DRDO decision-making process to move slowly. Meeting requirements for indigenous content can be challenging due to these obstacles, which might deter investment and prolong project schedules.
When compared to imported alternatives, indigenous defense manufacture frequently has higher production costs. Because of this, DRDO may find it difficult to maintain effective competition while making sure that its products fulfill performance and quality requirements.
Notwithstanding progress, India’s defense sector still lacks the technological capacity to independently design and produce a large number of critical equipment. This disparity makes it necessary to keep importing some essential parts, which makes it more difficult to reach high degrees of indigenization.
The legitimacy and feasibility of indigenous initiatives may be impacted by the absence of assured markets for defense equipment made in the country. Manufacturers could be reluctant to make investments in creating new technologies or increasing manufacturing capacity if demand is uncertain.
A multifaceted strategy will be needed to address these issues, including strengthening ties with the commercial sector, expanding scientific staff education, expediting bureaucratic procedures, and creating an atmosphere that is more favorable for defense technology innovation.
India’s submarine capabilities have grown significantly with DRDO’s Project-76, which emphasizes self-sufficiency and cutting-edge technical integration.
