New Delhi: The Indian Navy has successfully concluded cost negotiations with Germany’s shipbuilding giant, ThyssenKrupp Marine Systems (TKMS), for the landmark Project 75 India (P-75(I)) contract — a massive undersea defence modernization initiative that will significantly upgrade India’s submarine force.
What Is Project 75(I)
Project 75 India, commonly referred to as P-75(I), is India’s flagship submarine acquisition programme aimed at building six advanced diesel-electric attack submarines equipped with Air Independent Propulsion (AIP) — allowing them to remain submerged longer than conventional designs.
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The submarines are expected to be based on Germany’s Type 214 Next Generation design, offering advanced stealth, sensors, torpedoes and long-range capabilities that enhance the Indian Navy’s underwater warfare strength.
Details of P-75(I) Submarine Deal
Under this programme:
- ThyssenKrupp Marine Systems (TKMS) will provide design expertise and key technologies.
- Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders Limited (MDL) in India will construct the submarines domestically, supporting India’s Make in India and defence indigenization goals.
This cooperation also reinforces strategic ties between India and Germany in defence manufacturing.
Cost Negotiation Highlights
The cost talks between the Indian Navy and TKMS were closely watched due to the programme’s scale. After detailed negotiations:
- The deal is estimated to be around USD 9 billion for the six submarines.
- This is significantly lower than the initial bid and reflects India’s negotiating leverage.
While formal signing is expected early in the next fiscal year, approval processes with India’s Ministry of Finance and Cabinet Committee on Security are underway.
What is the Importance of P-75(I) Submarine Deal
The P-75(I) submarines will bolster India’s underwater deterrence amid regional security challenges in the Indian Ocean Region (IOR). Their AIP systems and next-generation design will improve India’s anti-access/area-denial capabilities and long-range patrol endurance.
With these boats, the Indian Navy aims to maintain credible undersea superiority and counter the growing submarine fleets of other naval powers in the region.
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