New Scorpene Class Submarines for Navy

In news : The Defence Acquisition Council has cleared proposals worth thousands of crores to buy three additional Scorpene submarines and 26 Rafale Marine fighter jets for the Navy.

What are Scorpene submarines?

Conventional attack submarines, like the Scorpene submarines, are designed to actively target and sink adversary naval vessels.
They are capable of launching a large array of torpedoes and missiles. They are also equipped with a range of surveillance and intelligence-gathering mechanisms.
These submarines use diesel electric propulsion systems, with an endurance – ability to operate independently without refueling – of approximately 50 days.
This sort of propulsion system alternates between using diesel (for functioning on the surface) and electric (for functioning underwater).

Project-75

Project 75 includes the indigenous construction of six diesel electric attack submarines of Scorpene class.
The Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders Limited (MDL) in Mumbai is constructing the submarines in collaboration with the Naval Group of France.
The Indian Navy commissioned INS Kalvari, INS Khanderi, INS Karanj, and INS Vela between 2017 and 2021 under the project INS Kalvari. The Indian Navy recently commissioned the fifth submarine, INS Vagir, and initiated sea trials for the sixth submarine, INS Vagsheer.

Capabilities of Scorpene Submarines

Attack Submarines: The designers created Scorpene submarines as conventional attack submarines to target and sink enemy naval vessels.
Weapons and Surveillance: They can launch a variety of torpedoes and missiles, equipped with surveillance and intelligence-gathering systems.
Specifications: Scorpene submarines are approximately 220 feet long, with a height of about 40 feet. They have a top speed of 11 knots when surfaced and 20 knots when submerged.
Diesel-Electric Propulsion: These submarines use diesel-electric propulsion systems, providing an endurance of around 50 days.

Comparison with Nuclear Submarines

India’s Current Nuclear Submarines: India currently operates two nuclear-powered submarines (SSBMs) of the Arihant class.
Endurance and Speed: Nuclear submarines have theoretically unlimited endurance and can operate for up to 30 years without refuelling. They can also achieve higher speeds.
Cost and Expertise: Nuclear submarines are expensive and require specialized expertise to operate.
Advancements in Conventional Submarines: Diesel-electric technology has significantly improved the range and stealth of conventional submarines.
Air Independent Propulsion (AIP): Retrofitting Scorpene submarines with AIP systems will enhance their endurance and stealth capabilities.

Currently, India has 2 nuclear-powered submarines (SSBMs) of the Arihant class in service.

FAQs Related with Scorpene Class Submarines

Ques 1: What are Scorpene class submarines?

Answer: Scorpene class submarines, designed specifically for stealth operations and underwater warfare, are utilized by naval defense forces.

Ques 2: Which countries operate Scorpene class submarines?

Answer: Several navies around the world, including the Indian Navy, Brazilian Navy, Royal Malaysian Navy, and Chilean Navy, operate Scorpene class submarines.

Ques 3: What are the key features and capabilities of Scorpene class submarines?

Answer: The advanced stealth capabilities of Scorpene class submarines include low acoustic signature and hydrodynamic design. Equipped with modern sensors, torpedoes, and anti-ship missiles, Scorpene class submarines excel in defensive and offensive operations.

New Scorpene Class Submarines for Navy