Indian Navy and Naval Aicraft: News

Indian and international experts were divided on how damaging the leak of sensitive data on the Scorpene submarine could prove to be and whether it could have compromised the platform.



Strategic affairs expert Commodore (retired) C Uday Bhaskar said if it is confirmed the data relates to the Indian vessel, then the quantum of details put out might compromise the submarine’s credibility.
“The DNA of a submarine is about not being detected. If the adversary has all that data, it affects the detectability index of the boat,” said Bhaskar, who heads the Society for Policy Studies.

Gabriel Dominguez, Asia-Pacific editor at the respected IHS Jane’s Defence weekly, said, “The risk is even higher if the data has been distributed widely, has reached potential adversaries and regional rivals or is now held by individuals or organisations or both that increase the risk of further leaks or hacks.”

He said there could also be implications for the operational effectiveness of the Scorpene fleet and for India acquiring additional Scorpene-class vessels at a time when the Indian Navy’s underwater capabilities are a source of concern.

Read: All about Indian Navy’s crucial Scorpene submarines

However, Admiral (retired) Arun Prakash, who was the navy chief when the Scorpene deal was inked, cautioned against jumping to conclusions. He said, “One can’t really say how much damage has been caused without analysing the data.”

Prakash said since the documents were categorised only as “restricted,” it was an indication the leaked data was not very sensitive. “Restricted is the lowest security classification. If the documents were that sensitive, they would have been marked secret or top secret.”
If found guilty of lapses, French shipbuilder DCNS would have violated a critical non-disclosure clause in the $3.5-billion contract for supplying six Scorpenes to the Indian Navy.

Read: India assesses vulnerability of Scorpene submarines after leak of secret data

Peter Roberts of the Royal United Services Institute in London said the most serious implications from the leak were the “frequency signature details” of the Scorpene class. “The major risk…is from the exposure of data related to propeller and radiated noise – as a result, Indian submarines will be more vulnerable after the data breach,” he said.
Such leaks will “allow submarine hunters to refine their searches rather than just searching large swathes of water”, he said. “In simple terms, acoustic intelligence – the fingerprint of a submarine – is the Holy Grail of national secrets.”

Roberts said DCNS will have to make “some reassurances to the Indian government, and possibly undertake some mitigation work”, such as changing key equipment to change the frequency signature of the submarines. “The impact on DCNS is most likely to be highest with the Australian government who, having recently (awarded) a large submarine contract to the French shipbuilder, will want reassurance that their data will be sufficiently protected from prying Chinese eyes,” he said.

Prof. Harsh V. Pant, professor of International Relations at King’s College London said, “This is a serious breach, if established, and can do some real long term damage to Indian strategic profile as the Scorpene was supposed to be the main conventional submarine of the Indian fleet. With this leak, Indian Navy will have to re-set its calculus in light of the Scorpene becoming more vulnerable and prepare anew for a challenge that is growing by the day.”

Alyssa Ayres, a former US state department official who oversaw relations with India and is now a South Asia expert with the Council on Foreign Relations, described the leak as “terrible news, no question”.
“But I think further details are required not only on the leaked info (does this reveal all about the sub?)…as well as on how it happened (was it indeed a hacking? If so, by whom?) before it’s possible to assess how future Indian defence deals might be affected,” she said.

Roberts added that in the longer term, the leak will act as a black mark against DCNS” in future submarine bidding competitions, especially in the Asia-Pacific region where more than 70 new submarines will be ordered over the next decade. All arms manufacturers will have to “tighten (and prove) their ability to protect data and information against internal leaks, as well as potential espionage from external actors”, he said.

(With inputs from Prasun Sonwalkar in London and Yashwant Raj in Washington)

http://www.hindustantimes.com/india-news/experts-divided-on-leak-of-sensitive-data-on-scorpene-submarine/story-k08HUxx5hZvhdINN7iyJ3J.html

[quote="KoTeMoRe"][quote="Pinto"][quote="KoTeMoRe"]

Vladimir79 wrote:

KoTeMoRe wrote:

DCNS hasn't much face to lose if you see what I mean, thanks to the French government.

what do you mean ? will you elaborate further ?

Pinto wrote:

KoTeMoRe wrote:

Pinto wrote:

KoTeMoRe wrote:

Vladimir79 wrote:


DCNS hasn't much face to lose if you see what I mean, thanks to the French government.

what do you mean ? will you elaborate further ?

DCNS technicians also "lost" a laptop full of data when the two Mistrals were being demilitarized after the failure to execute the contract. DCNS people were also implicated into the famous leak and bribery scandal that ultimately cost the life of their technical crew in Karachi (2002). Ironically there too the French were selling subs.

Reported by Vishnu Som, Edited by Divyanshu Dutta Roy | Updated: August 25, 2016 21:22 IST
Here are the top 10 developments in this big story:

1.The sonar system, including the frequencies used by its key components, the Flank Array, the Sonar Intercept Receiver, the Distributed Array and the Active Array have been compromised. All these systems work together to allow the submarine to detect enemy warships and submarines and attack them using torpedoes.

2.The latest tranche of data appears to contradict the Ministry of Defence statement earlier today that there was no immediate security risk from the leak of secret documents detailing the capabilities of the Scorpene.

3.The Australian newspaper, which reported on the leak two days ago, posted new details this evening on its website but with sensitive info redacted.

4.So though the documents prove that the classified information had been compromised, it is not in the public domain.

5.The documents posted earlier have been examined and do not pose any security compromise as the vital parameters have been blacked out," the defence ministry said in a statement earlier. However, it is The Australian which has redacted sensitive data. It is possible that these documents are also available to others.

6.Six Scorpenes designed by French shipmaker DCNS are being built in Mumbai. The first is expected to join service before the end of this year.

7.On Tuesday night, the Australian said it had 22,000 pages of details that exposed the combat capability of the submarines, being built at a cost of $3.5 billion.

8.The documents were stolen from DCNS and not leaked, an unnamed French government source said to news agency Reuters, adding that the information published so far shows only operational aspects of the submarines.

9.The source said the documents appeared to have been stolen in 2011 by a former French employee that had been fired while providing training in India on the use of the submarines
.
10. India and France have opened investigations with Delhi asking for a detailed report.


http://www.ndtv.com/india-news/more...per-10-facts-1450394?pfrom=home-lateststories

By Manu Pubby, ET Bureau | Aug 25, 2016, 10.57 PM IST

NEW DELHI: More bad news for the Navy came on Thursday night with the Australian newspaper revealing more leaked content, including details of the submarine's underwater warfare systems.

The new documents put out by the Australian online newspaper come hours after the Indian Navy sought to downplay the issue, saying that there is no immediate reason for worry.

The new documents include specifics of the entire sonar system that is used by the sub to identify and target enemy vessels. These include details of the Flank Array, Sonar Intercept Receiver bands of operations and Active array transmission frequency.

The timing of the disclosure that thousands of pages of confidential information on India's Scorpene submarine have been leaked is particularly bad for France that is trying to finally tie down a troublesome deal for Rafale fighter jets and shipbuilder DCNS, which was hoping to get clearances for a foreign direct investment proposal this month.

While the navy has been downplaying the seriousness of the breach - saying that necessary steps are being taken to mitigate probable security compromise - the leak has thrown questions on a DCNS FDI proposal worth over Rs 100 crore that hinges on the Scorpene project.

In fact, sources told the Economic Times that a team of senior officials from France was to visit New DELHI next week, hoping for final clearances in what would be the first bid in the defence sector for 100 per cent FDI under a new liberalized policy by the Modi government.

The FDI was for an Air Independent Propulsion (AIP) system that would have given greater underwater endurance to the Scorpene submarine. French company DCNS was banking on an additional order for three Scorpenes that would be fitted with AIP and had based its FDI pitch strategy accordingly.

"The leak has put up questions on how the capability of the current fleet on order has been undermined. That is being studied. So, any discussion on a new order would depend on the outcome of the study," a senior ministry official said.

At the same time, there are worries that the leak is worse than was earlier expected with The Australian revealing more data. The newspaper has put out more redacted documents that detail the sensitive underwater warfare systems and sonar of the submarine.

The Indian Navy, which said that documents shared by the newspaper as of now do not pose a security compromise as they have been redacted, has asked French authorities to act on the leak. "The Government is examining if the impact of the information contained in the documents claimed to be available with the Australian sources is compromised. The detailed assessment of potential impact is being undertaken by a high level committee," a navy statement read.

The leak, which according to the Australian also contained files on French frigates and its Mistral amphibious vessels, could also have an impact on a DCNS proposal to sell landing platform docks to the Indian Navy. The Rs 20,000 crore LPD contract -- for which DCNS is partnering Reliance Defence -- is in its final stage with commercial offers expected to be opened this year.

The timing of the leak also coincides with a delicate period on the Rafale fighter jet negotiations. After protracted discussions, which have lasted for over a year, the Indian and French side finally came to an agreement earlier this month to take forward the purchase of 36 fighter jets. A team from France is also expected to visit India next month to finalise the deal. However, the Indian side is now bound to raise questions on data protection and confidentiality from the French side.

http://economictimes.indiatimes.com...ublesome-rafale-deal/articleshow/53863495.cms

Top defence analyst allayed fears that it could compromise the security of the strategically important combat vessels

Australia's The Australian newspaper on Thursday uploaded a fresh tranche of leaked documents relating to information about operating instructions of underwater warfare system of the six Scorpene submarines which are being built in India by French firm DCNS.

However, a top defence analyst allayed fears that it could compromise the security of the strategically important combat vessels.

Like in the previous case, the newspaper has blacked out all details which it felt would compromise India's security interests.

However, the new set of documents, with Indian Navy insignia on it and marked "Restricted Scorpene India", gives details about the sonar system of the submarines which is used to gather intelligence underwater.

It talks about a wide range of technical specifications of the sonars and at what degree and frequency it will function.

The documents detail the "Operating Instruction Manual", which talks about how to select a target for weapon firing, weapon configuration selection, among others.

Though the Navy has not yet officially reacted to the release of new documents, sources maintained that it does not compromise national security.

They said the same information about a submarine was on many naval defence websites.

"On the face of it, these documents are basic operating manual. You buy any goods from the market, it will come with an operating manual," defence analyst Commodore Uday Bhaskar (Retd), Director of Society of Policy Studies told PTI.

"If the question is whether tonight's revelation has made our submarines vulnerable, then the answer is no," he said.

"It is more like basic operating instructions for the user," he said.

The paper said it has been told that the secret data was removed from DCNS by a former sub-contractor in 2011 and taken to a private company in Southeast Asia before being passed on to a branch of that company in a second Southeast Asian nation.

A disk containing the data filed was then posted in regular mail to a company in Australia.

DCNS is focusing its investigation on former employees and sub-contractors involved in the project. At this stage it is not thought that the leak came from India.


http://www.business-standard.com/ar...ed-scorpene-documents-out-116082501351_1.html

http://in.rbth.com/economics/defence/2016/08/29/india-planning-joint-shipbuilding-venture-with-russia_625083


A delegation from the Indian Embassy in Russia recently visited the "Zvezdochka" ship repair centre, where the "Sindhukesari" submarine is currently undergoing renovations.

Headed by Pankaj Saran, the Indian Ambassador to Russia, a delegation from the Indian Embassy in Russia visited the defence shipyards in Severodvinsk. They visited the "Sevmash" production association, where aircraft carrier Admiral Gorshkov was modernized into the "Vikramaditya" for the Indian Navy, and also the "Zvezdochka" Ship Repair Centre, where the "Sindhukesari" submarine is now undergoing a refit and repairs.

The Severodvinsk shipbuilders gave the delegation a tour on the slip way and assembly workshop, where the actual works were being carried out.

“I will be frank and say that our people have learned a lot from you, and without your help and support we would not be able to reach the level, where we are at now. And that is why we are now considering which way our cooperation will be further developed, which will allow us to move forward another 40 years in terms of maintenance and modernization of submarines,” Ambassador Saran said, speaking of further military-technical co-operation between the two countries.

He said the question of establishment of a joint Russian shipbuilding venture in India is being looked into. It is possible that this will be done within the framework of the "Make in India" programme, which is now gaining momentum in the country. No time line has been set for the venture.

“For the Government of India and the country itself, one of the main priorities is the development of domestic industry capable of meeting all the needs of the Navy, Army and other military institutions,” Saran said. “That is why today India and Russia want to reach a new level of cooperation – the establishment of joint partner companies, where the two parties have their companies join forces and work on the same project, in order for it to be profitable for the Russian companies too and so that it could work for the benefit of the military and shipbuilding industry in India,” said the Ambassador.

The diesel-electric submarine "Sindhukesari" is the sixth submarine from the Indian Navy to have undergone warranty repairs in Severodvinsk. A contract for modernization of the sub was signed earlier this year and, in June, to supervise the repairs, a group of Indian naval officers and their families arrived in the northern city.

Eugene Gladyshev, head of the press service of the CA "Zvezdochka" said the total number of Indians in Severodvinsk, staying for repairs of the "Sindhukesari," is 53, including 13 children.

The school children are preparing for 1st September, when they will start studying in regular secondary school classes, said Gladyshev. “The wives of soldiers from India are also gradually learning Russian. Usually submarine repairs last about two years. We have special houses for the Indian families to stay, and there are also several other rooms, where they can find accommodation.”

For 20 years now, Severodvinsk has been receiving Indian guests for quite a long stay. The first Indian Navy submarine came to Severodvinsk shipyard for repairs in the mid-90s. During this time, the company has upgraded and refitted five diesel-electric submarines, with roughly around 600 servicemen and monitoring teams working for them, and newcomers to Severodvinsk.

Once a closed town, the people of Severodvinsk have, over this period, got accustomed to the Indian officers, and have fallen in love with many of the traditions associated with India and Indians. Today, no one city holiday is complete without Indian troops’ performances, while the wives always come for events wearing their festive saris.

To ensure that the Indian sailors have a more comfortable stay with their families in the north, the Severodvinsk authorities and the Indian surveillance team leader have signed an agreement on cultural cooperation.

http://sputniknews.com/military/20160901/1044837866/india-kalibr-cruise-missiles-purchase.html

India plans to purchase the Kalibr cruise missiles from Russia, the Russian Izvestia newspaper reports.

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MOSCOW (Sputnik) – Izvestia explains that the Kalibr export version will have a significantly reduced flight distance – as short as 300 kilometers (186 miles]), in order not to violate the provisions of international agreements that prohibit the export of missiles with a greater flight distance. "These will be, essentially, the same missiles as the ones used in Syria," a diplomatic source told the newspaper on Thursday. Last week, a diplomatic source told RIA Novosti that the Russian Black Sea warships equipped with Kalibr cruise missiles will remain in eastern Mediterranean at least until September. The missile ships have carried out several Kalibr launches against the Jabhat Fatah al Sham (also known as Jabhat al-Nusra, or Nusra Front) terrorist group in Syria.

http://izvestia.ru/news/629911

September 1, 2016, 00:01 | Army | Nikolay Surkov
India chooses a new "Caliber" for its forces

Delhi plans to buy from the Russian Federation the latest cruise missiles successfully tested in Syria

India intends to apply to the Russian Federation with a request for the sale of cruise missiles "Caliber", equipped with the latest high precision guidance system, and capable of striking ground targets. The question of the supply will be discussed during the forthcoming visit of Russian President Vladimir Putin to India.

This "News" an informed diplomatic source. Interviewed experts believe that with the advent of the last modification "caliber" of the Indian military will receive a new combat capabilities, as well as be able to prepare to the adoption of the national development of cruise missiles.

The proposal has already been prepared by the Indian side, but will be officially handed over only during the visit of President Vladimir Putin, - said the source of "Izvestia". - It will, in fact, the same rockets that were used in Syria, that is with high precision guidance system, but with a reduced flight range in full compliance with international regulations.

Two Vladimir Putin's visit to India scheduled later this year. In October, the Russian leader will visit Goa at the summit of the BRICS, and he plans to visit Delhi during the summit "Russia-India" closer to the end of the year.

Indian Navy already has a "Calibre" missiles, but only in the anti-shipping, now Delhi wants to get a modification, be used for attacks on militants in Syria. It is distinguished by the presence of a new high precision guidance system, but in the export version of the range will be greatly reduced - up to 300 km, so as not to violate the provisions of international agreements prohibiting the export of missiles with a longer range.

However, experts do not exclude that in the future the Indians themselves can increase the range . Moreover, the emergence of new armed "Caliber" can give an additional impetus to the Indian defense industry.

The Indians are now designing their own medium-range cruise missiles - Nirbhay.

Peter Topychkanov, Program Officer said, "The problems of non-proliferation." - The emergence of "Caliber" will be a great help in terms of the development of technology, understanding of the role of such systems in the forces, the development of operational plans. With the help of
"Caliber" will prepare the Indians to the adoption of its own system.

An independent military expert Anton Lavrov said in an interview with "Izvestiya" that high-precision cruise missiles have only a few countries in the world, so that the appearance of new "Caliber" - a landmark stage in the development of the Indian forces.

Strengths

"Caliber" - is its high precision and the ability to hit a well-protected objects, including control and air defense facilities centers - Anton Lavrov said. - The most important thing - the effect of surprise. When does air raids, the enemy has time to react, and cruise missiles strike unexpectedly. Plus "Caliber" is an advantage - he can maneuver and go to the target from unexpected directions.

The expert drew attention to another important aspect of the export of new cruise missiles.

Feature of "Caliber" -

the use of high-precision satellite guidance, and hence, its application requires very close cooperation in the military sphere, as the Indians will have to grant access to the three-dimensional model of the Earth, maps, terrain and military frequencies GLONASS - said Anton Lavrov.
Such opportunities do not give to anybody, only the closest allies.

HIGHLIGHTS

*India unlikely to give French naval contractor DCNS a proposed order for three new submarines

*DCNS had offered to build three more submarines to help India replace its ageing Soviet-era fleet

*A French govt source has said the firm had apparently been robbed, and it was not a leak.

India is unlikely to give French naval contractor DCNS a proposed order for three new submarines, in addition to the six it is already building in the country, following the leak of secret data about its capabilities, Indian defence officials said.

Details of the Scorpene submarine+ were published in the Australian newspaper last month, triggering concerns that it had become vulnerable even before it was ready to enter service.

DCNS had offered to build three more submarines to help India replace its ageing Soviet-era fleet, and had held talks over the past year, two Indian sources said.

That offer will not now be taken up, according to the officials.
"We had an agreement for six, and six it will remain," a defence ministry official briefed on the navy's plans told Reuters, speaking on condition of anonymity.

A navy officer said there had been a serious breach of data and the navy's efforts+ were focused on determining the damage done to the existing submarines.

"No order will be signed, nothing is going to happen now," the officer, who is also been briefed on the submarine data leak, said when asked if the government planned to enlarge the order.

DCNS spokesman Emmanuel Gaudez said the company was "stunned" by the information. "The talks are ongoing with the government and our Indian partners. We have not been informed in anyway of such a decision," he said.

India's defence ministry has written to DCNS asking for details about the extent of the leak and how data relating to the Scorpene's intelligence gathering frequencies, diving depth, endurance and weapons specifications had ended up in the public domain, both officials said
.
A naval group headed by a three-star admiral is looking at altering some features of the submarine, the first of which began sea trials in May for induction later this year, to minimise any damage.

The remaining five are in various stages of production at state-run Mazgaon Docks shipyard in Mumbai and they were all due to enter service by 2020.

INVESTIGATION

An official at Mazgaon Docks said the firm was focused on completing the original order of six Scorpenes and that he was not aware of any plan to build more.

A DCNS spokesman had earlier said the firm was in close touch with "our key customers like India to keep them informed of the development of our investigation, respond to their questions and mitigate their legitimate worries".

"The investigation is still ongoing and one of its objectives is to determine the potential prejudice and minimize its potential consequences," the spokesman said.

DCNS is preparing to build a new fleet of submarines in Australia for A$50 billion ($38.13 billion). Australian defence officials have warned the firm to beef up security in the wake of the leak.

DCNS has said that the leak, which covered details of the Scorpene-class model and not the vessel currently being designed for the Australian fleet, bore the hallmarks of "economic warfare" carried out by frustrated competitors.

Indian officials have pointed to a "non-disclosure of information" clause that was written into the 2005 contract at French insistence, the first defence ministry official briefed on the communication with the DCNS, said.
But the official said the government could only invoke that clause if it was established that the data was leaked and not stolen.
A French government source has said the firm had apparently been robbed+ , and it was not a leak, adding it was unlikely classified data was stolen.

NOISE SIGNATURE

Indian submarine experts say that, while the breach in information security was serious, it does not make the Scorpenes immediately vulnerable to detection.

The most vital data about a submarine is its unique "signature" of noise, heat and electro-magnetic emissions, and it is the combination of such signatures that determines the ability to detect them.

"If that is gone, then you might as well say goodbye to the submarine. You are exposed," said former vice admiral and submariner A.K.Singh.
Such signatures are assembled in the course of the sea trials of a submarine, and in the case of the Scorpenes that has yet to happen, he said.

India's submarine arm is down to 13 vessels, only half of which are operational at any time, and is falling rapidly behind China, which is expanding its maritime presence in the Indian Ocean.


http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/india/India-shelves-plan-to-expand-French-Scorpene-submarine-order-after-data-breach/articleshow/53991105.cms

India has drops plans to order 3 more Scorpene submarines from France after secret data of its latest conventional submarine was published in the Australian newspaper last month and now doubts have been raised in certain section of Indian media if India will allow France’s DCNS to compete for Project-75-I under which India plans to build Six more Next generation Stealth Conventional Submarines for Indian Navy .

officials at Mazgaon Docks speaking to Indian media were seen saying that they were pretty convinced that Indian government could have gone for upgraded next generation Scorpene-class submarines to save cost and to maintain commonality but now there is uncertainty in that part, now due to recent development .

Germany’s ThyssenKrupp Marine Systems (TKMS) another contender in India’s Project-75-I also competed with French DCNS for Australian Submarine and lost and is not considered prime contender now in India’s Project-75-I due to expensive submarine offered by them , which will make Russia front runner now due to a cheaper price tag .

Russians have offered Amur-class submarine which is upgraded Lada Class submarine with elements of proposed fifth-generation diesel-electric Project Kalina submarine currently being developed by TsKB Rubin making it technologically at par with any conventional submarine currently offered under Project-75-I and are more open to integrated Indian weapons systems , sonar suite and DRDO designed air-independent propulsion (AIP) Systems.

Defence Analyst seems to be convinced that Russian Submarine could serve has a technological base to develop further improved indigenous conventional submarine in near future since Russians are willing to share transfer of technology and are willing to help India develop its own indigenous conventional submarine fleet when Project-76 officially becomes reality .

http://idrw.org/scorpene-leak-advantage-russia-indias-project-75/#more-106515

The 24TH of August brought a nightmare of sorts for the Indian Navy as the Australian Newspaper released a set of 22000 papers with Technical & Operational details of the Scorpene class submarines currently in construction for the Indian navy at Mazagon Docks Mumbai. In Many ways the Submarine arm of the Indian Navy seems to be jinxed. In 1957, the then Defence Minister requested Lord Mountbatten, then the First Sea Lord, to provide India a target submarine which could be the oldest and cheapest available, he refused. In 1959 the Navy asked the UK for three operational submarines, this never happened as the UK refused the soft credit terms sought by India. The Navy finally got a Break when the Soviet Union came to our rescue and provided us India with eight Foxtrot class submarines between 1967 & 1974.

The jinx was not broken though and India was hit by a double Whammy in the 80’S First the HDW scam broke in 1987 which saw the much required class of six HDW type 209 submarines being acquired being reduced to four boats, then India had to prematurely return the Charlie class SSN it had leased from the USSR for 10 years after the dissolution of the Soviet Union after it had only served the IN for a bare three years. Once again the Russians came to our rescue and the fleet was bolstered by 10 877EKM (KILO) class boats which were inducted between 1986 & 2000.This was followed by the Selection of the Kalvari (Scorpene) class boats in 2005, this project is currently running 4 years behind schedule and has just been hit by the Scorpene Leak as well.





This brings us to P75I after years of delays the DAC finally approved a sum of 53000 crores for the Purchase of Six advanced SSK units. The Catch this time was that much like the Kalvari class all 6 would be built in India with a strategic partner to be selected after due deliberation. This has since increased to an expected cost of over 60000 crores.

However the recent leaks beg the question why do we need to risk more leaks by foreign partners? Why can’t we build our own SSK? The Indian Navy already has a Submarine design Group within the directorate of Naval Design that has just designed the Arihant class of SSBN & is currently working on a domestic class of SSN. We also possess extensive literature & Blueprints for Both the HDW Type 209 7 the Scorpene class of Submarines that we can modify into our own SSK. Now if we actually design a domestic SSK the next question is how & Where it can be Built within India , what are the technologies required, how many of those technologies re available in country etc. Without going too much into details a SSK has a few basic components, these are:

1) Hull
2) Sonars
3) AIP
4) Combat & Control Electronics
5) Battery Packs
6) Primary Diesel Engine, Generator, Gear & Drivetrain
7) Torpedoes & Missiles (weaponry)
Anechoic tiles & Sound Insulation

I shall be listing out Indian Firms that can be employed for sourcing the parts listed above which can be used to build an Indian SSK.





Hull- The are two parts to making a Submarine Hull, the first is the Metal & the second is the Fabrication of the Metal into a Hull capable of withstanding the extreme stress a Submarine has to undergo. The Metal will most likely be DMR292A Steel or the DMR249B Submarine Grade Steel developed in 2015 by SAIL At its Rourkela & Durgapur plants, Apart from This India has also made Titanium domestically which was used by the USSR for its ALFA class of SSNs during the Cold war. The Obvious candidates for fabricating a hull out of this metal are MDL & L&T .The Mazagon docks limited has had extensive experience in fabricating and building the Hulls of the HDW boats in the 1980’s and is building the Scorpene class Boats now. Larsen & Toubro has some of India’s most modern shipbuilding facilities at Hazira in Gujarat & Katupalli in Tamil Nadu. L&T has partnered HSL, DRDO & the Indian Navy in building the Hulls for the Arihant Class SSBN and hence has built a legitimate claim towards the fabrication of any future Indian SSK.

Sonar- The Obvious candidate for this would be the same USHUS Advanced Sonar currently in production at BEL Bangalore. As of today this Sonar is already operational in Five Sindhughosh class SSKs and the INS Arihant. Apart from this India also builds the Panchendriya Sonar System that is a unified submarine sonar and tactical control system & includes all types of sonar (passive, surveillance, ranging, intercept, obstacle avoidance and active).It is used for detecting and tracking enemy submarines, surface vessels, and torpedoes and can be used for underwater communication and avoiding obstacles. We can fully expect to see both these systems form the Sensory core of any future Indian SSK.






AIP- DRDO is currently developing at least two different types of AIP (Air independent Propulsion) Fuel Cell technologies called PAFC (Phosphoric acid fuel cell) & PEMFC (polymer electrolyte fuel cell). Both of these were supposed to be operational in time for installation into the Kalvari Class of Submarines, however Due to delays by DRDO these systems are only expected to be installed into the fifth & Sixth Kalvari class boats. As of now the Project is delayed and DRDO has yet to exhibit a working prototype.
Even if the DRDO AIP is not ready we have the option of purchasing commercially available AIP technologies from a variety of Global manufacturers if required.


Combat & Control Technologies- TATA Strategic Electronics Division partnered with DRDO to build the entire Control System for the Arihant SSBN project. Apart from this we also have the sonar ISS (Integrated Sonar Suite), state-of-the-art sonar developed for the 2nd SSBN called Aridaman by NPOL DRDO. This is a unified submarine sonar and tactical control system & includes all types of sonar (passive, surveillance, ranging, intercept, obstacle avoidance and active). It also features an underwater communications system. The hull features twin flank-array sonars and Rafael broadband expendable anti-torpedo countermeasures.








Battery Pack- There are at least two Indian manufacturers that have a known capability to manufacture Batteries for Submarines .HBL Batteries headquartered at Hyderabad manufactures 12391 Wh to 40300 Wh Batteries for Submarines at its facilities in Telangana, Andhra Pradesh, Uttarakhand & Haryana. Exide Industries India also manufactures Batteries for Submarines and currently meets 100%of the requirement of Submarine batteries for the Indian Navy. Exide also has a license to export Submarine batteries and is currently closing an order for Submarine batteries to Algeria and Russia. Exide is on the list of registered Submarine battery vendors for the Russian Submarine Design Bureau RUBIN as well.


Primary Diesel Engine, Generator, Gear & Drivetrain- India has already developed an Electrical drivetrain along with the generator for the Arihant class SSBN, while the exact details of the system remain classified it is known that the entire system along with the Gearbox was supplied by Walchandnagar industries based in Maharashtra .This system can be adapted to create a drivetrain for an Indian SSK by replacing the Steam Turbine & Nuclear reactor with a Submarine Marine Diesel as the prime Mover. While there are numerous manufacturers of Marine Diesel Engines in India like Cummins India and Kirloskar Oil Engines Indian Limited, these manufacturers have never made an Engine for a Submarine. The good news is that Submarine Diesel Engines are commercially available from global manufacturers like MTU (which supplies the engine for the Arjun Tank) & Kawasaki.




Torpedoes & Missiles (weaponry)- DRDO has developed at least two domestic Torpedo weapons systems that could find their way onto a domestic SSK. The Shenya Advanced Light Torpedo and the Varunastra Heavyweight Torpedo have both been test fired from Ships however Submarine firings have yet to be undertaken. The Submarine variants of both these torpedoes are very much still in further development even as their ship borne variants are being inducted. Apart from these products from DRDO Anil Ambani has also tied up with Atlas GMbh of Germany to manufacture & sell the Seahake range of Torpedoes to the Indian Navy. We can fully expect all of these torpedoes to make it into the Arsenal of an Indian DE submarine. The candidates for Missiles that shall arm any future Indian SSK are the Russian Klub/Kalibr & the Indian Brahmos. The Submarines launched version of the Brahmos is still in development and has been tested once from a pontoon platform in 2013. A future Indian SSK shall in all probability be armed with a 16 cell VLS launcher developed within India by L&T for Brahmos Missiles while also carrying Klub/Kalibr units to be fired via Torpedo Tubes.


Anechoic tiles & Sound Insulation- Once again Technologies that were developed in India for the Arihant class of Submarines shall come in useful as any future Indian SSK can use the same anechoic tiles developed for the INS Arihant by a rubber vulcanizing firm based out of Mysore. The name of this firm remains classified.

India really needs to think whether it needs to spend 60000 crore rupees on purchasing SSK technology from a Foreign Partner when all of the components required can easily be found within Indian Shores. An internal Indian Navy assessment a few days ago found that it would Cost India only 35000 crores to develop & build six Indian SSNs. We should scrap the P75I and use the funds available to develop and manufacture an Indian SSN & an Indian SSK. The Indian Navy plans to deploy a fleet of at least 30-35 submarines by 2030 to counter the PLAN’s fleet of over 80 boats. These will be a mix of 4-6 SSBNs, 6 SSNs & 20 SSKs. The Navy will be left with only six compromised Scorpenes and 8 old KILOS in 2030 unless we start induction of more SSKs quickly. India can buy time to develop its own SSK by using 20000 crores for off the shelf purchase of some 10 improved Kilo class submarines(at 300$mil each) these will bolster numbers while we use the remaining 40000 crores to develop & build a fleet of Indian Submarines.

http://bengalraider.blogspot.in/2016/09/indias-submarine-arm-road-ahead.html

NEW DELHI: Japan is negotiating the sale of Shinmaywa US-2 search and rescue aircraft with India not for any economic gain but because it considers India a friendly country, Tokyo has said amid reports that the deal for 12 amphibious aircraft had collapsed over pricing and technology transfer issues.

Top Japanese defence ministry sources told TOI in an exclusive interaction that they would look at reducing the price for the $ 1.6 billion aircraft deal ? as much as possible, in a fresh attempt to revive the negotiations.

The agreement, if it happens, will have a huge symbolic significance as a message to China about deepening defence and security cooperation between India and Japan, both victims of Chinese territorial aggression.
"Our position is that if this agreement happens, it will have a very favourable impact on our relations with India,'' said a Japanese defence ministry official.

"We understand there are some consultations underwayin India over pricing. Pricing is determined by several factors. We are not doing this for economic gains but for our friendly relations with India and can look at reducing the price to the extent possible," added the official.

Japan is now hoping that there will be some progress in negotiations by the time PM Narendra Modi visits Tokyo later this year for the annual summit meet. Known for its short takeoff capability, the aircraft was meant to be deployed in the Andaman Nicobar Islands.

http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/india/Japan-may-cut-price-to-ink-aircraft-deal-with-India/articleshow/54272792.cms

VISAKHAPATNAM: The United Shipbuilding Corporation of Russia, the fifth biggest shipbuilders in the world with a turnover of 5 billion US dollars, is considering Visakhapatnam for making its manufacturing hub.

Alexey L Rakhmanov, president of the United Shipbuilding Corporation, during a brief interaction with the media after the inaugural of the two-day dialogue between India and Russian defence industries here on Wednesday said that the company had found Andhra Pradesh in tune with its needs. “However, there is a long way to go before the final decision is taken,” he said.

Acknowledging the potential of India, particularly Andhra Pradesh in defence manufacturing sector, more so for naval needs, given its strategic location, Rakhmanov said they are contemplating more ties between Indian and Russian institutes of higher education, so that the human resources could be built for the benefit of the defence manufacturing sector.

Earlier during his presentation at the inaugural, he said that the proposed manufacturing hub in India could become their global production unit.

“Russian shipbuilding firms are inclined for setting up joint ventures with Indian firms as part of the Indigenization of defence manufacturing equipment,” he said while underlining the vast scope for production of commercial vessels and lauded the emphasis being given by the AP government on port-based development and inland waterways.

Speaking on the occasion, Krishna Kishore, CEO of Andhra Pradesh Economic Development Board said Andhra Pradesh offers a perfect eco-system for defence manufacturing equipment, as it is not only stands second in the ease of doing business in India, but has the second largest sea coast, six ports and eight more in the offing, six airports with another six under proposal.

Kartikeya Misra, director of the state industries and commerce department said Indian defence needs are met by imports up to 60 per cent. “It gives a good opportunity for OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturers) to invest in India, particularly Andhra Pradesh.”

According to him, Indian Navy would need 13-15 sea vessels, but existing shipyards in the country can build five vessels at the most, which in turn gives an opportunity for the ship builders of Russia to invest in the country. “It’s a win-win situation for all,” he said.Rear Admiral LV Sarat Babu, chairman of Hindustan Shipyard Limited said shipbuilding is critical to maritime nation like India for both its defence capabilities and for its economic prosperity.

“Investment in shipbuilding will trigger investment in other allied sectors that will be nearly 10 times more. Low labour cost is one of the advantages of India,” he pointed out.

Vice-Admiral HCS Bisht, flag officer commanding-in-chief, Eastern Naval Command (ENC) recalled the strong ties between India and Russia not only in defence but also in other sctors.

“In fact, role of Russia is very much there in the growth story of Vizag,” he said.

http://www.newindianexpress.com/states/andhra_pradesh/Russian-shipbuilder-mulls-manufacturing-hub-in-Visakhapatnam/2016/09/14/article3620298.ece

https://in.rbth.com/economics/cooperation/2016/09/13/russia-displays-special-features-of-il-112-to-india_629463

Dmitry Rogozin, Russia’s Deputy Prime Minister introduced the technological features of the Il-112 aircraft to Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, he said, while he visited the Voronezh Aircraft Building Enterprise VASO.

"This plane is of interest for some of our foreign partners. I myself handed the prospect for specifications on the airframe to Prime Minister of India, Modi," Rogozin said.

He stated that the aircraft can be made to suit both military and civilian specifications.

Additionally, the Il-112 will have unique capabilities, including being able to land on the ground and on unequipped airfields, and being able to raise bulky loads.

Rogozin said the terrain in India is mountainous and the country needs to support the military forces.

"They have showed a preliminary interest in that," said Rogozin.

http://www.hindustantimes.com/india-news/indian-navy-s-guided-missile-destroyer-to-be-launched-on-sept-17/story-4mkfbAFZPaZOZP40dqOfjO.html









The second ship of the Project 15B, a guided missile destroyer christened ‘Mormugao’ for Indian Navy, will be launched in Mumbai on September 17.

The Mazgoan Shipyard, which is building the ship will also outsource work for 10 blocks to involve private ship building yard in the programme.

The navy aims to take the level of indigenisation by the navy to 68% in this project.

It said it has set a target of 2018 for the first indigenous aircraft carrier (IAC) while the government is seriously considering IAC 2 and it is in planning stage.

Vice admiral GS Pabby, controller warship production and acquisition, said the navy has the target of having 212 ships in its fleet by 2027 and it will be a “real challenge” and there is a need to work “very hard” for it.

Noting that in last one year the Indian navy has inducted five ships, which includes three warships, Pabby said this is the first time the naval forces have built so many ships of a class, -- 10 ships of 15, A and B class - and this process has helped in indigenisation.

In 2011, the government had sanctioned four 15B ships at the cost of Rs 29,700 crores.

The first ship of the project, guided-missile destroyer ‘Visakhapatnam’, was launched on April 20 last year.

During launching ceremony the hull of the ship which is constructed on dry area is floated on water for the first time. It is a milestone event for any vessel.

“The last six years can be called the golden years of Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders. Since 2010, the yard has delivered one major warship platform to Indian Navy almost every year.”
“Commencing with the high-end stealth frigate INS Shivalik, delivered in 2010, the yard dedicated to the nation INS Satpura and INS Sahyadri in the same class.”

“This was followed by the highly acclaimed stealth destroyer INS Kolkata sporting a unique silhouette afforded by MF STAR antenna and INS Kochi in subsequent years. The third and last destroyer in this series, Chennai was delivered to the Navy in August 2016 and will be commissioned shortly,” it said.

MDL is also constructing six Scorpene class submarines for the Indian Navy under a transfer of technology from DCNS of France. The first boat in this class, Kalvari, will be commissioned into the fleet soon. The launch of the second boat is slated later this year.
The yard is now ready with the augmented facility created recently for a second line of submarines.

For the first time in its history, Mazagon Dock in 2015-16 achieved a value of production (VOP) above Rs 4,000 crore with an operating profit of Rs 218 crore.

INS Vikrant - Designed by Directorate of Naval Design, Indian Navy

by Abhishek Das

Indian Navy, the maritime wing of the Indian Armed Forces have been guarding our borders and its surrounding exclusive economic zones of the vast Indian Ocean Region (IOR) very effectively for the last 70 years. It has seen lot of ups and downs during its 69 years of long journey.

The Indian Navy is already a blue water force, as may be seen in its wide operational footprint and full-spectrum capabilities. Today, the Indian Navy operates a balanced force comprising aircraft carriers, multi-role destroyers and frigates, fleet tankers, offshore patrol vessels, amphibious ships and a multitude of aviation and underwater combatants, capable of both blue water and littoral operations. These enable the Navy to undertake multiple activities under its military, diplomatic, constabulary and benign roles, to promote and protect India’s maritime interests.

The Navy’s roles and responsibilities have expanded significantly over the years, in response to changing geo-economic and geo-strategic circumstances. In order to meet the entire spectrum of challenges, our force structure planning is dictated primarily by capabilities to be achieved, threat perceptions in the prevailing maritime security environment, emerging technologies, and the availability of funds.

In overall terms, our fleet is young, while there are some gaps in certain niche areas such as minesweepers, submarines, and multi-role and utility helicopters. The Government is seized of these issues and impetus has been accorded to overcome the delays and progress all pending cases in a time-bound manner. We have 47 ships and submarines under construction, which will be inducted progressively into the Navy.

The question arises ‘Can India compete the Chinese maritime power at sea? If we analyse the naval build up of India carefully, then it is very clear that it is not going to surrender to the Chinese. It is not only preparing to counter the Chinese but it is preparing to counter any major naval force also. India aspires to become a global power just like China, and for that it needs a strong Navy which it has realised of late.

Let’s take a look what India is building for its Navy to make it a global blue water force :

In this article I will try to list out all the main warships, submarines, weapon & defence systems and supporting technologies that are being/to be acquired by the Indian Navy down the years. Please note that existing systems are NOT MENTIONED unless they are of a class that is still being built-up or have some major upgrade program that needs to be mentioned.

PART - I

Main Surface Combatants

Project-15B Bangalore-Class Destroyers

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CGI concept of Bangalore-Class Destroyer

An improved version of Kolkata-class. 4 ships planned, 1st one's hull almost complete. First major warship-class to be built after MDL received much-needed upgrades in terms of modular construction.

Carries 16 x BrahMos anti-ship/land-attack cruise missiles (will be replaced with Mach 7-8 BrahMos-II once that's ready) and 48-64 SAMs (Barak-8/8ER), all contained in VLS cells. A new CIWS cannon should be inducted by the time these ships are doing sea trials. MF-STAR AESA multifunction radar and RAWL-02/RAN-40L search radar with EMDINA Combat management system will be integrated. BEL HUMSA-NG sonar suite will be standard.

Project-15A Kolkata-Class Destroyers


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The most powerful warship built in India so far. 3 ships planned, 1st one inducted & commissioned earlier this month. 2nd & 3rd ones will follow next year. Armament suite includes 16 BrahMos-1 cruise missiles and 32 (according to some, 64; with 32 additional reloads) Barak-8 SAMs, all VLS-based. Comes with 4 CIWS cannons of 30mm caliber and a 76mm main SRGM.

Radars are the same as P-15B as are CMS and Sonar suites, albeit P-15B might be using more advanced/later versions. Full load displacement quoted as 7,400 tons.

Hangars for 2 large helicopters are available : the competition of 12-ton Multirole choppers for DDGs should begin soon with the competitors being CH-148 Cyclone and AW-101. Winning helos could be armed with light anti-ship missiles such as Kongsberg NSM, and will have their own torpedos & dunking sonars. It's also the same for P-15B.

Project-15 Delhi-Class Destroyers Upgrade*

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The 3 existing Delhi-class destroyers, each with 6,900 tons of displacement and currently carrying 16 cruise missiles and 80 surface-to-air missiles will be upgraded with the MF-STAR multifunction radar, new EMDINA combat management suite and new sonars. The 16 Kh-35 Switchblade/Uran-E missiles will be replaced with tube-launched BrahMos-1 while the 42 Shtil-1 (9M317M) SAMs will be replaced by Barak-8, the 32 Barak-1 being retained with upgrades.

Project-17A Frigates

Much-improved versions of Shivalik-class FFG. Total 7 planned for construction at two different shipyards (4 at MDL and 3 at GRSE), this number could grow to 10 if an additional 3 Talwar-class frigates are not ordered. The frigates will have largely the same radars & CMS, sonar suites as the P-15B destroyers - like the MF-STAR multifunction radar and HUMSA-NG hull-mounted sonar array.

Armament will consist of 8 cruise missiles (BrahMos-1/2) and 32 surface-to-air missiles (Barak-, all launched from VLS cells. Fully conceled torpedo tubes and redesigned flush deck to reduce radar & acoustic signature will be implemented. Full load displacement could be between 6,200 and 6,800 tons.

New CIWS cannons and 76mm/127mm SRGM will be equipped in likely redesigned turrets.

Talwar (Krivak-IV)-Class Frigates



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Adding to the 6 already in service, another 3 to be ordered from Russia as Batch-III with some upgrades to the combat management system. Armament suite of 8 BrahMos cruise missiles and 24 9M317M SAMs will be retained.

Project-28 Kamorta-Class ASW Corvettes

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New-generation corvettes with an emphasis on anti-submarine warfare. Total 4 planned, 1st one commissioned earlier this month. The design includes advanced X-form hull (a first in India) and several radar, acoustic, and Infra-Red suppression measures. The corvette, with a full load displacement of 3,400 tons is geared for ASW missions with an array of torpedos, hull-mounted & towed-array sonars and several processing stations dedicated for submarine-hunting. The ship would receive a 16-cell Barak-1 SAM suite in the future. The capability to launch an anti-submarine version of the Klub missile through torpedo tubes is said to exist, with transfer of Klubs for Kamorta being documented in SIPRI, but such capability is not officially mentioned.

Another 8 corvettes of an improved design under Project-28A could be cleared for construction after the 3rd & 4th vessels (which will bring some new design developments as compared to 1st and 2nd ones) of present class are completed.

New Generation Corvettes

With the indigenous ship design agencies already jam-packed, the design for 16 new guided missile corvettes will be acquired from a European or Russian design agency and then they will be constructed in India with some modifications. Picture of Swedish Visby-class is only for depiction, although that design is most likely to be among the competitors.

*While the SLEP upgrade of P-15 Delhi destroyers is a sure thing to happen, the exact systems & weapons to be included in that upgrade are not yet confirmed so have that one with a pinch of salt.

Another matter that deserves mention is the possible upgrade of 3 existing Project-16A frigates with Maitri/Barak-1 SAMs and new electronic systems. Tube-launched BrahMos-1 cannot be ruled out either.

On top of the 7 new destroyers under P-15A/B, there are rumors of upto 8 to 12 more next-generation destroyers of a new design, with indigenous AESA-based multifunction radars and fully integrated masts. Then again, it's just a rumor, although defence analysts have confirmed that IN plans to have a fleet of 24 destroyers total.


PART - II

Aircraft Carriers, Support Ships & Amphibious Warfare Vessels

Project-71 IAC-1 (Vikrant-Class) Aircraft Carrier

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The first carrier-class to be designed & built in India. The IAC-1 is a gas turbine-powered STOBAR configuration with MiG-29K and NLCA Tejas jet fighters outlined for operations from it's deck. It can carry a total 30 aircraft, including flight & hangar deck storage. Full-load displacement will be around 40,000 tons. The remainder of the air-wing consists of Ka-31 Helix-B AEW helicopters, Dhruv Mk.3 & Sea King transport/ASW helicopters. The Sea Kings will be replaced in due course by a new NMRH - most likely S-70B-2 Sea Hawk.

The electronics will consist of an MFSTAR multifunction AESA radar, a 3D AESA-based search radar (most likely RAN-40L), an indigenous combat management system, and a suite of BEL-built hull-mounted sonars. The ship will have it's own compliment of 32 Barak-8 SAMs as well as 4 CIWS mounts of 30mm caliber. The maximum speed under propulsion is quoted as 30 knots.

Currently the carrier's hull is almost complete and according to sources, propulsion has been integrated. The ship is being built using modular methods, with the 'island' superstructure nearing completion as well and awaiting installation into place.

The Vikrant will be operated by the Eastern Naval Command.

Vikramaditya (Admiral Gorshkov/Kiev)-Class Aircraft Carrier

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Although the ship itself, displacing 45,500 tons and capable of carrying 26 aircraft in total, is inducted & operational with the Western Naval Command, there still remains the program to outfit it with Barak-8 SAMs and a new CIWS system. The Vikramaditya operates MiG-29K fighters & Ka-31 AEW, Dhruv, Sea King, Ka-28PL and Chetak helicopters.

Vishaal (IAC-2)-Class Aircraft Carrier

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Although details remain sketchy, it can be said with almost-certainty that the IAC-2 will be built with the following features to boot : a displacement of around 65,000 tons (don't know for sure if full-load or not), CATOBAR configuration with the option of EMALS (US has already made clear it's offer) and nuclear propulsion using the same 180-200MW Pressurized Water Reactor (PWR) that is being developed for future submarine-classes.

The most sketchy part of the details remains the air-wing. It may consist of either a naval version of FGFA, or Rafale-M taking advantage of IAF's MMRCA deal, which will eventually be replaced by a naval AMCA. The CATOBAR configuration allows for the operation of aircraft such as E-2D Advanced Hawkeye and UCAVs. Little is known about the rest of this carrier.

Although only one has be contemplated so far, we can expect a 2nd ship of this class when the time comes to replace the Vikramaditya. The IN intends for a 3-carrier force, one for Bay of Bengal/China, one for Arabian Sea/Pakistan/Middle East and one on standby or in refit, and according to prominent defence analysts, the IN could standardize on Vishaal & improved designs of the same class by the time the Viki & IAC-1 are to be replaced or transferred into reserves...hinting at a 3rd ship of this class.

Landing Helicopter Docks

Competition for 4 LHDs, 2 of which will be bought from abroad and the remaining 2 built in India. As per the latest of unofficial reports, the Spanish Juan Carlos-I and the French Mistral-class ships are leading the fray for providing four vessels for the IN. Respectively they have displacements of 26,000 tons & 21,300 tons and can transport between 900+ troops & 40-46 main battle tanks along with a plethora of 20-30 helicopters from the flight deck.

Fleet Support Ships

The MoD had recently cleared the procurement of five large Fleet Support Ships (FSS) designed to accompany the CBGs or assist in other amphibious operations. The FSS are to have full-load displacements of around 40,000 tons and will be capable of both astern & abeam transfer of equipment & replenishments for at-sea naval warfare units. No data as yet about the possible competitors or exact method of acquisition. Most probably foreign design will be modified & built in India. Picture of DCNS BRAVE-class ship only for depiction, although that model is likely to be among the competition.

PART - III

Submarines (Nuclear & Conventional)

Ballistic Missile Submarines (SSBN)

S-5 "Avinash" Class

The S-5 are the definitive underwater deterrence platforms of the Indian nuclear triad. A total of 3 submarines of this class have been outlined, each one with a submerged displacement of approximately 20,000 tons and capable of carrying between 12 to 24 intercontinental ballistic missiles with Multiple Independently targeted Re-entry Vehicles (MIRVs). The K-5 SLBM with an estimated range of 6,500 to 8,500 kilometers is being developed for the purpose.

It is not known if the S-5 submarine-class will be made to carry BrahMos cruise missiles in their torpedo tubes for defence against warships.

The same "Shipbuilding Center" in Vizag on India's East Coast that is building the Arihant-class submarines will take up construction of the much larger S-5 afterwards. The vessels will be a powered by a new-generation 180-200MW pressurized water reactor being designed & developed by the DAE & BARC.

Cruise Missile Submarines (SSGN)

S-2 Arihant-Class


The 3 Arihant-class nuclear submarines (1st one currently undergoing sea trials with the 2nd one most probably being fitted out), originally built as SSBNs, will be converted to an SSGN role carrying the Nirbhay 1,000+ km land-attack cruise missiles & the BrahMos 300km anti-ship cruise missiles in it's silos and torpedo tubes.

It is estimated that each of an Arihant-class vessel's 4 silos can carry upto 5 Nirbhay missiles, giving a total of 20 such missiles in the silos, discounting any number that can also be carried in the torpedo tubes. The Arihant has a surfaced displacement of around 6,000 tons and an unspecified submerged displacement, estimated by unofficial sources as around 7,000 tons.

Attack Submarines (SSN)

The Indian Navy and the MoD have recently outlined a requirement for, to begin with, 6 attack submarines with nuclear propulsion. While it is estimated by naval analysts that this number could grow to anywhere between 9 to 18 in due course - the design of the submarine has not been revealed so far.

Considering various sources, it has been deduced that it would be one of three possible designs:

1) A slightly dowsized version of the Arihant-class design, but without any vertical SLBM launch silos & incorporating considerable acoustic-signature reduction measures
2) Based on a Russian Akula/Yasen-inspired design, with completely re-done interior & aesthetics
3) Based on the French DCNS Barracuda-class SSN design

All three offers would end up having the same reactor (derived from the one meant to go onboard S-5 SSBN). An approximate displacement of around 5,000 tons has been reportedly specified. The submarines will be capable of launching torpedos & anti-ship cruise missiles from the TTubes.

Conventional Attack Submarines (SSK)

Project-75I

The P-75I is a submarine tender which specifies the procurement of 6 advanced conventionally-powered submarines with fuel cell Air-Independent Propulsion (AIP) and the capability to launch BrahMos cruise missiles. While the details of the tender are already known, the choice of submarine, looking from a logistical & economic perspective, had better be the S80 Super Scorpene, which has a displacement of about 2,400 tons.

Scorpene-Class


The Mazagon Dock Ltd. (MDL) is currently engaged in building 6 of these advanced conventional submarines for the IN, each with a displacement of 1,560 tons, and the first one having been named INS Kalvari. The procurement has been repeatedly delayed with the first submarine expected to enter service in 2016. The order book is likely to be increase to 9 from the present 6 by next year.

The IN Scorpenes will be equipped to launch SM-39 Exocet anti-ship cruise missiles and an as-yet-unselected new-generation heavyweight torpedo, with the choices being the SeaHake Mod4 and the Black Shark.

Current prospects aim at 12 nuclear and 12-15 conventional submarines, with the nuclear number being capable of growing to anywhere upto 24. And the total number then grow upto 40 odd vessels. Indian Navy may have more than 40 submarines if it continues to upgrade present fleet of Sindhughosh class or Russian Kilo class Diesel electric vessels. They can be operated for another 20-25 years after their refit, hull modification and upgradation in weapons and sensor suite structure.

Conclusion

The Indian Navy is a builder’s navy with strong preference for indigenous capability builds-up in warship construction as well as sophisticated weapons, sensors and armament. Indian Navy has become adept at interfacing equipment sourced from very diverse origins and philosophies on its in house designed versatile ships. The Indian Navy, an ardent exponent of indigenization, has proactively collaborated with industry to accommodate Indian products, and has resorted to import only on operational or unavailability grounds.

The Indian Maritime Security Strategy is centered on shaping a favourable and positive maritime environment to effectively overcome the wide array of maritime challenges spread across the Indian Ocean.

Undeterred by its recent data leak controversy, the Indian government will go ahead with plans to set up an exclusive repair facility for Scorpene-class submarines, in what is being seen as a major morale booster for French shipbuilder DCNS.

India will set up an exclusive repair facility for the soon-to-be-inducted Scorpene-class Submarine at the Naval Dockyard in Mumbai at an estimated cost of USD 109 million. The Indian government decided to go ahead with the plan despite the huge controversy over the leak of sensitive data pertaining to the Scorpene-class Submarine in August this year.

This decision has come as a major relief for French ship building firm DCNS, which feared suffering a huge setback in India due to the data leak controversy. DCNS is reportedly eyeing an additional contract for building three more submarines for India. The company had signed a USD 3.5 billion contract in 2005 with India to jointly develop six Scorpene-class submarines.

Meanwhile, India's Defense Acquisition Council (DAC) under the chairmanship of Defense Minister Manohar Parrikar, has also cleared a proposal to set up a weapons repair facility for ships in Port Blair, a highly strategic location in the Indian Ocean. The facility is being built at an estimated cost of USD 68 million. This facility would not only enable the on-site repairing of vessels and weapons at times of emergency but would also help India capture the repair market for foreign vessels crossing the Indian Ocean.

In yet another decision, the DAC has cleared a proposal aimed at strengthening the security system in the northern state of Jammu and Kashmir. DAC has cleared proposals worth USD 50 million for the procurement of electronic warfare systems in the region. Apart from strengthening security and surveillance in the region, the DAC also approved a proposal to procure anti-tank guided munitions for training purposes for the army at a cost of USD 61 million.

Read more: https://sputniknews.com/asia/20160928/1045803645/subs-india-shipyard.html

India's state-owned shipyard, Garden Reach Shipbuilders and Engineers (GRSE), delivered the first of a new class of eight in-house designed Mk IV Landing Craft Utility (LCU) vessels to the Indian Navy (IN) on 30 September.

According to the Indian Ministry of Defence, L-51 is expected to be commissioned "soon" at Port Blair: the Indian armed forces' triservice command that oversees India's Andaman and Nicobar island territories.

The delivery of L-51 took place 14 months later than the initially envisaged timeframe of July 2015. The ship's production began in September 2012. Keel-laying took place on 26 April 2013 followed by the ship's launching in March 2014 at GRSE's Rajabagan unit.

http://www.janes.com/article/64321/indian-navy-receives-first-of-new-class-of-mk-iv-lcus

U.S. defense contractor Boeing will supply 22 Harpoon anti-ship missiles to the Indian Navy.

The U.S. Department of Defense has awarded U.S. defense company Boeing an $81 million contract modification to supply the Indian Navy (IN) with 22 submarine-launched Harpoon over-the-horizon anti-ship missiles under the Pentagon’s Foreign Military Sales (FMS) program, according to a September 23 press release.

In detail, the Boeing will supply 12 UGM-84L Harpoon Block II missiles and 10 UTM-84L Harpoon training missiles, all encapsulated in a container to enable submerged launch through a torpedo tube. “Also included are two Encapsulated Harpoon certification training vehicles, containers, spares, as well as all-inclusive logistics support, and instruction for IN personnel on the missile system,” IHS Jane’s Defense Weekly reports.

The arms package is estimated to have a total worth of around $200 million. The deal is expected to be completed in June 2018. India first purchased 24 AGM-84L Block II Harpoons in 2010 for the Indian Air Force. It bought an additional 21 Harpoons in 2012 at a cost of $200 million. India’s burgeoning fleet of Poseidon 8I Neptune advanced maritime patrol/anti-submarine warfare aircraft are armed with Harpoon missiles.

http://thediplomat.com/2016/10/upgraded-indian-attack-submarines-to-receive-us-anti-ship-missiles/

http://www.janes.com/article/64404/indian-navy-s-p-8is-get-new-operating-base-on-west-coast

The Indian Navy (IN) inaugurated a naval air enclave (NAE) on 5 October at Cochin International Airport on the country's west coast to facilitate the operation of its Boeing P-8I Neptune maritime multimission aircraft.

The NAE will enhance surveillance of the west coast, particularly of the "strategically critical" island territories of Lakshadweep and Minicoy, and enable "timely assistance to be rendered to neighbouring countries who share friendly ties with India", said the IN in a statement.

The IN's P-8I fleet is based at Arakkonam on the east coast.

A RFI has been issued on 6Th October 2016 titled
"CONSTRUCTION OF SEVEN NEXT GENERATION CORVETTES (NGCs) FOR INDIAN NAVY"

Last day for submission of bids is 18Th November, 2016.

The tender calls for a multirole corvette , capable of doing

1. Offensive SSM Attack,
2.Anti Submarine Warfare Operations,
3.Local Naval Defence,
4. MIO and VBSS Operations.


http://tenders.gov.in/innerpage.asp?choice=tc5&tid=del856091&wno=1

NEW DELHI: The Indian Navy is scouting for seven "next generation" heavily armed Corvettes that will come as a boost to the domestic industry since it will be a 'Make in India' project running into several thousand crore of rupees.


Private shipyards like the Reliance Defence and Engineering Limited (RDEL) are likely to respond to the Navy's Request for Information (RFI) along with state-run shipyards.


"We will be pitching for it strongly. We have made different types of warships in our shipyard and we are the only ones to have delivered earlier than schedule," chairman and manging director of Goa Shipyard, Rear Admiral Shekhar Mital (Retd) told PTI.


The corvettes will be capable of carrying out surface-to-surface missile attacks, anti-submarine warfare operations, and the navy wants the ships to be delivered from 2023.


While the exact value of the project is yet to be determined since it all depends on the kind of weapon platform that will be on board, sources said it is safe to assume that each corvette would cost about Rs 1,500 to Rs 1,800 crore.


The criteria for the new vessels are largely similar to the Khukri-class boats they will replace — 4,000 nautical mile range, maximum and sustained top speeds of 25-27 knots.


The 120-meter-long single hull corvettes, or small warships, will have low radar, acoustic, magnetic, visual and infra-red signatures.
The ships should able to carry a minimum of 8 surface-to-surface missiles and engage sea-skimming missiles, flying 3-5 metres above sea level, upto maximum speed of Mach 3 (three times the speed of sound).


Active towed array sonar, two light-weight torpedo launchers should be on board fitted to the corvettes, a navy document says.


There are at present at least 45 ships and submarines under construction in India.


India has already built four anti-submarine warfare corvettes under Project-28, the first of which was handed over to the navy in 2014. This was built by Garden Reach Shipbuilders and Engineers Ltd.


http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/india/Navy-scouting-for-corvettes-under-Make-in-India-banner/articleshow/55183375.cms

India seems willing to go pro here, ditching STOBAR and conventional propulsion, avoiding the MiG-29K too.
Wise moves as the whole carrier ops game is better-served with a more western approach. Of course the logistical nightmare will be epic

Confirmed: India’s Next Aircraft Carrier Will Be Nuclear

The Indian Navy’s latest aircraft carrier, the 65,000-ton supercarrier INS Vishal, the second ship of the Vikrant-class, will be powered by a nuclear reactor, according to anonymous Indian Navy sources. Furthermore, the INS Vishal will be able to accommodate up to 55 aircraft (35 fixed-wing combat aircraft and 20 rotary wing aircraft), launched using a catapult assisted take-off but arrested recovery (CATOBAR) aircraft launch system, incorporating U.S. defense contractor’s General Atomics’ new electromagnetic aircraft launch system (EMALS) technology, the Business Standard reports on November 7.

The Indian Navy’s preference for the CATOBAR aircraft launch system indicates that the new warship will in all likelihood not carry MiG-29K Fulcrum fighter jets, the current mainstay of India’s naval combat aviation. This will open up opportunities for competitors, in particular France and the United States, to push their naval combat aircraft. As I reported previously (See: “India to Consider French Fighter Jets For Navy’s Newest Aircraft Carrier”), representatives of French aircraft maker Dassault Aviation pitched the naval version of the Dassault Rafale twin-engine, fourth generation multirole fighter to the Indian Navy in early 2016. (The United States has been quietly pushing Lockheed Martin’s F-35c Lightning II and McDonnell Douglas F/A 18 Hornets).

http://thediplomat.com/2016/11/confirmed-indias-next-aircraft-carrier-will-be-nuclear/

KiloGolf wrote:India seems willing to go pro here, ditching STOBAR and conventional propulsion, avoiding the MiG-29K too.
Wise moves as the whole carrier ops game is better-served with a more western approach. Of course the logistical nightmare will be epic

Confirmed: India’s Next Aircraft Carrier Will Be Nuclear

The Indian Navy’s latest aircraft carrier, the 65,000-ton supercarrier INS Vishal, the second ship of the Vikrant-class, will be powered by a nuclear reactor, according to anonymous Indian Navy sources. Furthermore, the INS Vishal will be able to accommodate up to 55 aircraft (35 fixed-wing combat aircraft and 20 rotary wing aircraft), launched using a catapult assisted take-off but arrested recovery (CATOBAR) aircraft launch system, incorporating U.S. defense contractor’s General Atomics’ new electromagnetic aircraft launch system (EMALS) technology, the Business Standard reports on November 7.

The Indian Navy’s preference for the CATOBAR aircraft launch system indicates that the new warship will in all likelihood not carry MiG-29K Fulcrum fighter jets, the current mainstay of India’s naval combat aviation. This will open up opportunities for competitors, in particular France and the United States, to push their naval combat aircraft. As I reported previously (See: “India to Consider French Fighter Jets For Navy’s Newest Aircraft Carrier”), representatives of French aircraft maker Dassault Aviation pitched the naval version of the Dassault Rafale twin-engine, fourth generation multirole fighter to the Indian Navy in early 2016. (The United States has been quietly pushing Lockheed Martin’s F-35c Lightning II and McDonnell Douglas F/A 18 Hornets).

http://thediplomat.com/2016/11/confirmed-indias-next-aircraft-carrier-will-be-nuclear/

Indians will soon have more different aircraft in service than whole NATO combined, including trainers and agrocultural fleet.