New Scorpene class submarines for the Navy: Why they are a crucial buy

Source: The post is based on the article “New Scorpene class submarines for the Navy: Why they are a crucial buy” published in Indian Express on 15th July 2023

What is the 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?

The Scorpene submarines are conventional attack subs, meaning that they are designed to 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).

How many Scorpene submarines does India have currently?

Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders Limited(MDL) is building six Scorpene class submarines under the Project-75, as part of a deal signed in 2005, which allowed for transfer of technology from the French defense firm, Naval Group. 

Of these, five ( INS Kalvari, INS Khanderi, INS Karanj and INS Vela) have already been commissioned and the last one (INS Vagir) will likely be commissioned early next year. 

This project saw significant delays, with the first submarine originally slated for delivery in 2012.

What is the need of three additional scorpene class submarines?

The need to procure the three additional submarines was felt in the backdrop of the delayed deliveries of submarines under Project 75, as well as to bolster India’s dwindling submarine fleet.

Currently, the Navy has 16 conventional submarines in service – seven of the Sindhughosh class (Russian Kilo class), four of the Shishumar class (modified German Type 209) and five of the Kalvari class (French Scorpene class).However, to carry out its full spectrum of operations the Navy needs at least 18 such submarines.

Moreover, at any given time, around 30% of the submarines are under refit, thus further bringing down the strength of operational submarines. 

How are nuclear class submarines different from scorpene class submarines?

Nuclear submarines are known for their unlimited endurance – a nuclear reactor on a submarine has an operational life of up to 30 years. 

As they are not propelled by batteries, these submarines only need to come to the surface for replenishing supplies for the crew. They are also able to move much faster than conventional submarines.

However, this is not to say that a navy should only choose to procure nuclear submarines. This is because:

First and foremost, nuclear submarines are expensive and require a significant amount of specialized experience to operate. 

Second, with advancements in diesel electric technology, the range of conventional submarines as well as their stealth has gone up significantly.