Thyssenkrupp Marine Systems (tkMS) has finished trials for the Indian Navy’s Project-75I submarine deal and has offered a bigger “Type 214” HDW class submarine. This submarine has a stealth design and a hybrid energy system using fuel-cell-based air-independent propulsion (AIP) and lithium-ion batteries.
TkMS, partnered with Mazagaon Dock Ltd (MDL), is one of two bidders for the ₹43,000 crore project. A team from the Indian Navy has visited tkMS’s shipyard for trials, while the other bidder, Spanish company Navantia, was evaluated last month.
TkMS CEO Khalil Rahman believes his company is likely to win the contract due to their strong technical and industrial package. He mentioned the proven performance of their submarines, the ability to transfer technology, and the experience of their partner MDL in building submarines.
Rahman highlighted that the decision rests with the Indian Navy and the Ministry of Defence. The project involves building six submarines with a stealth design, different from the Navy’s older submarines. The new AIP and lithium-ion battery system allows the submarine to stay underwater for 10-12 days without surfacing.
TkMS Senior Vice-President, Commodore Anil Jai Singh, explained that the AIP system reduces the need for the submarine to surface, making it more discreet in enemy waters. TkMS has 52 AIP submarines in service or contracted.
The project requires 45% Indian content for the first submarine and 60% for the entire program. MDL aims to exceed these requirements. The bidding process will finish next year, and after the contract is awarded, the first submarine will take 7-8 years to deliver, with shorter timelines for the remaining submarines.
