Indian Navy Submarines: Project 75, Project 76 and SSN Plans
Why in the news
India is advancing several submarine projects, blending foreign-built boats with indigenous designs to sustain force levels.
Programme snapshot
| Programme | Details |
|---|---|
| Project 75 (foreign route) | Six diesel-electric boats; MDL and Germany’s TKMS to negotiate; about ₹70,000 crore (earlier benchmark ₹43,000 crore); first delivery 7+ years after contract |
| Project 76 (indigenous) | DRDO to seek CCS approval within two months; 2-3 years design, 5 years build; 3,000 tonnes; Land Attack Cruise Missile capable; 90-95% indigenous |
| Scorpene expansion | Three more boats; first by 2030 |
| Indigenous SSN | 4-5 years design, then 5 years to build and validate |
Key facts
- Project 76 builds on the Advanced Technology Vessel (ATV) project behind the Arihant class; only electronics and some tubes are imported.
- The Navy has 17 conventional submarines, mostly ageing.
Exam angle
- Project 75: TKMS with MDL; Project 76: DRDO-led.