New Delhi: Hindustan Shipyard Limited (HSL) has reached a major milestone by successfully completing the normal refit of an EKM-class submarine on July 21, marking the fastest-ever refit of its kind. This achievement highlights India’s growing defence manufacturing prowess and significantly enhances the operational readiness of the submarine fleet.
Expertise and Collaboration Drive Success
HSL Chairman and Managing Director Commodore Hemant Khatri attributed the record-setting accomplishment to more than 30 years of submarine refit expertise, the dedication of HSL’s skilled workforce, and close coordination with the Naval Dockyard Visakhapatnam and the Eastern Naval Command. He emphasized the crucial role of the expanding MSME vendor ecosystem, which supported local employment and skill development in alignment with the government’s Atmanirbhar Bharat (self-reliant India) initiative.
First-Ever Escape Hatch Upgrade on Conventional Submarine
The refit encompassed extensive repairs and upgrades, with a notable highlight being the modification and successful testing of both escape hatches for Deep Submergence Rescue Vessel (DSRV) integration. This marks the first time an Indian shipyard has carried out such an upgrade on a conventional submarine, underscoring HSL’s advanced technical capabilities.
Looking Ahead: Modern Submarines and Strategic Projects
Building on this success, HSL is gearing up to undertake the refit of a modern Scorpene-class submarine. The shipyard is positioning itself as a prime candidate for future high-profile programs such as the Medium Refit-cum-Life Certification (MRLC) of the Sindhughosh class and the construction of new submarines under Project 75(I) and Project 76.
Strategic Collaboration with Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders Limited
HSL recently signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders Limited (MDL) to establish dual submarine construction facilities on India’s east and west coasts. This collaboration aims to enhance fleet readiness and accelerate delivery schedules, strengthening India’s strategic maritime defence infrastructure.
Expanding International Partnerships
On the global stage, HSL is currently in discussions with the Vietnam People’s Navy regarding submarine refit services, highlighting India’s expanding role as a trusted defence partner in the Indo-Pacific region.
Emerging as a Defence Industrial Backbone
With rapidly expanding capabilities in submarine refit and construction, Hindustan Shipyard Limited is poised to become a critical pillar of India’s defence industrial base, delivering high-quality, timely solutions that support national and regional security objectives.
About HSL
Established in 1941, HSL is a premier public sector undertaking located in Visakhapatnam, Andhra Pradesh. Under the administrative control of the Ministry of Defence, HSL specializes in shipbuilding, ship repair, and submarine construction. The shipyard has a rich legacy of delivering advanced maritime platforms, including the indigenously designed Fleet Support Ships and Diving Support Vessels. With state-of-the-art infrastructure and a skilled workforce, HSL is at the forefront of India’s maritime defense sector, contributing significantly to the nation’s self-reliance in defense manufacturing.
About Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders Ltd
MDL, headquartered in Mazagaon, Mumbai, is a premier defence public sector undertaking under the Ministry of Defence. The shipyard specializes in the construction of warships, submarines, and a range of offshore platforms and vessels. MDL plays a pivotal role in advancing India’s naval capabilities and supports the Government of India’s ‘Make in India’ initiative through its indigenous shipbuilding efforts.
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