India's long-pending Project 75(I) submarine programme could move closer to a decision, with the proposal expected to be placed before the Cabinet Committee on Security (CCS), sources told NDTV.
The programme involves building six advanced conventional submarines for the Indian Navy at an estimated cost of around Rs 70,000 crore. The vessels are planned to be built largely in India by Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders Ltd (MDL) in Mumbai, in collaboration with Germany's ThyssenKrupp Marine Systems (TKMS).
The project has faced years of delays, with negotiations held up over commercial terms and technical requirements. A clearance from the CCS would pave the way for the contract to be signed and construction to begin.
Germany's TKMS expands India partnerships
TKMS has already been strengthening its presence in India's defence manufacturing ecosystem, even as the submarine programme awaits a final decision.
The German company has signed an MoU with Hyderabad-based VEM Technologies for the development, construction, integration and future modernisation of heavyweight torpedoes. TKMS subsidiary ATLAS ELEKTRONIK is also involved, while VEM is responsible for integration and testing in India.
The arrangement has since moved into a teaming agreement covering technology transfer and a Make-in-India torpedo project.
TKMS has also partnered Mumbai-based CFF Fluid Control for anti-submarine warfare systems and is exploring further collaborations with Indian organisations, including the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO).
Project aims to boost India's submarine capabilities
Project 75(I) is intended to go beyond adding six submarines to the Navy's fleet. A major focus is on strengthening India's ability to build, maintain, upgrade and eventually develop advanced underwater platforms domestically.
The proposed submarines are expected to feature air-independent propulsion (AIP), allowing them to remain underwater for longer periods than conventional diesel-electric submarines. They are also expected to carry modern sensors, torpedoes, missiles and electronic warfare systems.
A key issue will be how much technology and manufacturing capability can be absorbed by Indian shipyards and defence companies through the programme.
Navy faces conventional submarine shortage
The programme comes as the Indian Navy deals with a shortage of conventional submarines, while Chinese submarine activity in the Indian Ocean has increased.
India previously built six Kalvari-class submarines at MDL with French assistance. The first entered service in 2017, while INS Vagsheer, the sixth, was commissioned in January 2025.
India also has a long association with German-designed submarines. The Shishumar-class Type 209/1500 boats have been operated by the Navy for decades, with several built at MDL from the 1980s.
If the CCS approves Project 75(I), the next stages would include contract signing and the start of construction, with the final agreement expected to define production timelines, workshare, technology transfer and long-term maintenance responsibilities.