Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders Limited (MDL) has commenced formal contract negotiations with Indian defence procurement authorities for the ambitious Project 75(I), a programme aimed at constructing six advanced conventional submarines in collaboration with Germany’s ThyssenKrupp Marine Systems (TKMS). The project carries a significant price tag of ₹43,000 crore and plays a pivotal role in enhancing the Indian Navy’s fleet modernization efforts while aligning with the government’s broader objectives of Atmanirbhar Bharat and Make in India.
Under this initiative, the six state-of-the-art submarines, designed in Germany, will be manufactured at MDL’s facilities in Mumbai. This collaboration will include a transfer of technology aimed at bolstering indigenous capabilities and fostering domestic production in the defence sector.
TKMS CEO Oliver Burkhard expressed optimism about the partnership, describing it as “a foundation for trust, innovation and shared goals.” He emphasized India’s potential to become a global hub for submarine technology and manufacturing, asserting that with the backing of both governments, the partnership can ensure the provision of world-class submarines for the Indian Navy and allied nations.
Officials have indicated that the project will enhance India’s naval power projection while simultaneously generating employment opportunities and improving shipbuilding skills across the nation. The submarines are set to feature advanced Air Independent Propulsion (AIP) systems provided by TKMS, allowing for extended operational endurance and superior capabilities.
This agreement also highlights Germany’s commitment as a reliable partner in defence technology, signaling a strengthening of strategic and industrial ties with India. For New Delhi, the undertaking represents a crucial move towards decreasing dependence on foreign military assets and enhancing regional maritime security. The implications of Project 75(I) extend beyond mere military enhancement, promising substantial industrial growth and technological advancement within the Indian defence landscape.
