INS Vagir was launched on 12 November 2020, the fifth P75 Scorpene-class submarine built entirely by Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders Limited (MDL), following years of technology transfer and partnership with Naval Group. Following commissioning of INS Khanderi in September 2019 and launch of INS Vela in May 2019, the Vagir, fifth of the series of six Kalvari-class submarines ordered by India in 2005, was launched, completely built by Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders Limited (MDL) through a transfer of technology from Naval Group, in line with Indian Government’s “Make in India” policy. This series of six submarines are fitted with equipment built in India by qualified and highly trained industrial Micro, Small and Medium enterprises (MSMEs) which form the sound basis of the Indian submarine building ecosystem. “Naval Group is proud to be part of first of its kind P75 Kalvari programme to deliver entirely “Made in India” submarines to the Indian Navy. The P75 programme is a major element of the strategic Indo-French partnership developed over the last decades. This launch, amidst Covid-19 challenges, represents a new milestone for this unique industrial programme and illustrates the Aatmanirbharta (self-reliance) of Indian Navy and industry”, stated Alain Guillou, Senior EVP - International Development at Naval Group.
The Scorpene is a conventional propulsion submarine designed and developed by Naval Group for all types of mission, such as surface warfare, antisubmarine warfare, long-range strikes, special operations or intelligence gathering. Stealthy and fast, its level of operating automation allows for a limited crew which reduces its operating costs significantly, its combat edge highlighted by the fact that it has 6 weapon launching tubes and 18 weapons (torpedoes, missiles, mines). With 14 submarines sold internationally by Naval Group, the Scorpene is an essential reference product in the area of conventional attack submarines (SSK) for Navies across the world and can be adapted to meet special needs of international navies. Naval Group is present in India through its 100% subsidiary Naval Group India. Established in September 2008, Naval Group India’s mission has been to support the indigenisation of equipment for Scorpene submarine, to develop the Indian defence eco-system, as well as to develop design services in India with talented Indian engineers. Naval Group India endeavours to be a visionary and to further its involvement in empowering more industries by creating a robust eco-system that can cater to the varied defence needs of the country.
Courtesy Naval Group