"MoD Signs Two Contracts Worth ₹2,867 Crore for AIP and Torpedo Systems on Submarines"

The Ministry of Defence (MoD) has signed two significant contracts, totaling approximately ₹2,867 crore, to enhance the capabilities of India's conventional submarines. One contract, valued at ₹1,990 crore, has been awarded to defence PSU Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders Limited (MDL) for the construction of an Air Independent Propulsion (AIP) plug, developed by the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO). The AIP technology will be integrated into Indian submarines, boosting their endurance and operational capabilities.

The second contract, worth ₹877 crore, was signed with Naval Group of France for the integration of the Electronic Heavy Weight Torpedo (EHWT), also developed by DRDO, onto the Kalvari-Class submarines. These contracts were signed in New Delhi on Monday, in the presence of Defence Secretary Rajesh Kumar Singh.

The AIP technology, a key focus of India’s indigenous defence development, will significantly enhance the operational range of conventional submarines, supporting the government’s ‘Aatmanirbhar Bharat’ initiative. The project is also expected to generate approximately three lakh man-days of employment.

The integration of the EHWT will further enhance the firepower of the Kalvari-Class submarines, which are vital to the Indian Navy's strategic capabilities. The Indian Navy currently operates six diesel-electric Kalvari-Class submarines, built by MDL, and is in the process of acquiring three more. The collaboration between the Indian Navy, DRDO, and Naval Group, France, aims to significantly bolster the submarines' offensive capabilities.

HBL