Daily Current Affairs : 15-July-2023
In a significant move to bolster India’s naval capabilities, the Defence Acquisition Council, chaired by the Defence Minister, has recently given the green light to acquire additional Scorpene class submarines for the Indian Navy. The Scorpene submarines, known for their conventional attack capabilities, are set to further enhance India’s maritime security and defense preparedness. This essay delves into the specifications of the Scorpene submarines, the ongoing Project 75, and its contributions to India’s naval strength.
Scorpene Class Submarines: A Versatile Naval Asset
The Scorpene class submarines are modern, state-of-the-art vessels designed to target and neutralize enemy naval assets. These submarines possess remarkable specifications and capabilities that make them a valuable addition to India’s naval fleet.
- Specifications
The Scorpene submarines are approximately 220 feet long, standing at a height of 40 feet. When surfaced, they can attain speeds of up to 11 knots (20 km/h) and reach an impressive 20 knots (37 km/h) when submerged. Their compact size and agile nature allow them to navigate through challenging maritime terrains with ease.
- Propulsion Systems
These submarines utilize diesel-electric propulsion systems, enabling them to operate independently for up to 50 days without refueling. The alternating use of diesel (while on the surface) and electric (while submerged) propulsion ensures efficiency and extended underwater endurance. This feature empowers the submarines to carry out prolonged covert missions and patrol critical areas without the need for frequent refueling.
- Capabilities
The Scorpene class submarines possess a diverse range of offensive and defensive capabilities. They are equipped to launch a variety of torpedoes and missiles, making them formidable adversaries against enemy ships and submarines. Additionally, they are armed with advanced surveillance and intelligence-gathering mechanisms, allowing them to gather critical information and ensure enhanced situational awareness during operations.
Project 75: Indigenous Construction and Strengthening India’s Maritime Defense
Project 75 is a crucial initiative aimed at building six diesel-electric attack submarines of the Scorpene class indigenously. This ambitious project not only reinforces India’s maritime defense capabilities but also showcases the nation’s prowess in indigenous defense manufacturing.
- Construction Partnerships
The submarines for Project 75 are being constructed by the Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders Limited (MDL) in Mumbai, in collaboration with the Naval Group of France. This partnership leverages the expertise and knowledge of both nations in submarine construction, leading to the development of cutting-edge naval assets.
- Commissioned Submarines
Under Project 75, several submarines have already been commissioned, enhancing India’s naval strength. INS Kalvari, INS Khanderi, INS Karanj, and INS Vela were commissioned between 2017 and 2021. Recently, the fifth submarine, INS Vagir, joined the fleet, while the sixth submarine, INS Vagsheer, has commenced its sea trials.
Important Points:
- The Defence Acquisition Council, chaired by the Defence Minister, approved the acquisition of additional Scorpene class submarines for the Indian Navy.
- Scorpene submarines are conventional attack submarines designed to target and sink enemy naval vessels.
- Specifications: Length of around 220 feet, height of 40 feet, surface speed of 11 knots (20 km/h), submerged speed of 20 knots (37 km/h).
- Propulsion systems: Diesel-electric propulsion, endurance of approximately 50 days without refueling.
- Capabilities: Equipped with various torpedoes, missiles, and surveillance intelligence-gathering mechanisms.
- Project 75 aims at building six indigenous diesel-electric attack submarines of Scorpene class.
- Submarines are being constructed by Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders Limited (MDL) in Mumbai in collaboration with the Naval Group of France.
- Under Project 75, INS Kalvari, INS Khanderi, INS Karanj, and INS Vela were commissioned between 2017 and 2021.
- Recently commissioned fifth submarine: INS Vagir. The sixth submarine, INS Vagsheer, has begun its sea trials.
Why In News
Under the decisive leadership of the Defence Minister, the Defence Acquisition Council enthusiastically approved the acquisition of additional Scorpene Submarines, bolstering the Navy’s maritime capabilities. This strategic move reflects the government’s unwavering commitment to fortifying national security and ensuring the Navy remains well-equipped to safeguard our coastal waters.
MCQs about Scorpene Submarines and Project 75
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What type of submarines are the Scorpene class submarines designed to be?
A. Aircraft carriers
B. Ballistic missile submarines
C. Conventional attack submarines
D. Nuclear-powered submarines
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What is the propulsion system used by the Scorpene class submarines?
A. Nuclear propulsion
B. Diesel-electric propulsion
C. Gas turbine propulsion
D. Solar power propulsion
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Question: Who is responsible for the construction of the Scorpene class submarines under Project 75?
A. Defence Acquisition Council
B. Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders Limited (MDL)
C. Indian Navy
D. Naval Group of France
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