Indian Navy-Naval Group EHWT and MDL-AIP Contract: New Delhi, December 31, 2024 – The Ministry of Defence (MoD) has signed two significant contracts worth approximately Rs 2,867 crore (USD 334 million – approximate) to enhance the capabilities of Indian Navy’s submarine fleet.
The first contract, valued at around Rs 1,990 crore (USD 232 million – approximate), was signed with Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders Limited (MDL) in Mumbai for the construction and integration of an Air Independent Propulsion (AIP) Plug for the DRDO-developed AIP system.
The second contract, worth approximately Rs 877 crore (USD 102 million – approximate), was signed with Naval Group, France, for the integration of Electronic Heavy Weight Torpedoes (EHWTs) developed by DRDO onto the Kalvari-class submarines.
India’s Defence Secretary Rajesh Kumar Singh witnessed the signing of both contracts in New Delhi on December 30, 2024.
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Indian Navy’s Scorpene Class Submarine.
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AIP Plug for Enhanced Endurance
The AIP technology, a crucial development by DRDO, aims to significantly increase the underwater endurance of conventional submarines by reducing their reliance on atmospheric oxygen. This technology will play a vital role in enhancing the operational capabilities of the Indian Navy. The construction and integration of the AIP Plug will contribute significantly to the government’s ‘Aatmanirbhar Bharat’ initiative by promoting indigenous defence manufacturing. The project is expected to generate employment for nearly three lakh man-days.
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EHWT Integration for Enhanced Firepower
MoD-Naval Group signed contract for EHWT on Indian Navy’s Scorpene Class Submarine.
The integration of the DRDO-developed EHWTs onto the Kalvari-class submarines, a collaborative effort between the Indian Navy, DRDO, and Naval Group, France, will significantly augment their firepower capabilities. These advanced torpedoes will provide the Indian Navy with a crucial edge in underwater warfare.
These contracts represent a significant step forward in enhancing the Indian Navy’s submarine capabilities and strengthening India’s overall defence preparedness.
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*Note:1 USD = 85.7865 INR
