Indian Navy going full steam to strengthen its submarine arm

The Indian Navy is all set to add teeth to its might as it goes ahead with strengthening its crucial submarine arm.Khanderi, the second of the six Scorpene class submarines being built in India at Maharashtra-owned Mazagon Docks Ltd (MDL), in collaboration with the DCNS of France, sailed out last week from Mumbai harbour for her maiden sea sortie. It was also the first major trial for her propulsion plant.

The submarine, after conducting all trials successfully, will see her induction into the Indian Navy later this year, Navy sources said. The submarine’s features include superior stealth and the ability to attack the enemy using precision guided weapons.

The attack can be launched with torpedoes, as well as with tube-launched anti-ship missiles, while underwater or on surface.The first Scorpene, Kalvari, is being readied for delivery to the Navy in July or August. Kalvari has been put through a set of comprehensive trials over the past one year, including successful live missile and torpedo firings.

Named after ferocious deep sea predators, the Scorpenes, operate very silently and are capable of multifarious roles. Submarine arm of the Indian Navy is all set to complete 50 years this December. INS Shalki and INS Shankul, built by the MDL in early 90s, are still in service. Khanderi is named after the Island fort of Maratha forces, which played a vital role in ensuring their supremacy at sea in the late 17th century. The four other Scorpenes will also be delivered to the Navy at regular intervals over the next three years.

(Source : uniindia.com)

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