Spain's S-80 Plus-class Submarine Bid for Indian Navy Project-75I Contract
Defense News ,India :- Spain is trying really hard to win a big contract worth a lot of money from India. The deal is to provide the Indian Navy with six super advanced submarines, and Spain has a smart plan to make it happen.
Their plan involves showing off their cool Bioethanol Stealth Technology (BEST) Air-Independent Propulsion (AIP) system. They want Indian Navy officials to see how awesome it is by trying it out on a new submarine called S-80 Plus-class. This submarine can make India's underwater military power even stronger.
What's AIP and Why Does It Matter?
AIP systems are like magic for submarines. They let regular submarines stay underwater for a long time without coming up to the surface to recharge. This makes submarines super sneaky and able to go really far. India wants this advanced AIP technology for its Project-75I.
Why Spain Thinks BEST is the Best?
Spain's Navantia shipyard says their BEST AIP system is better than others. It's like the third generation of AIP technology and uses a special bioethanol fuel-cell system to make submarines stay underwater for a really long time.
BEST Advantages:
1. Lasts a Long Time: With BEST, submarines can stay underwater for more than three weeks, almost like pure battery-powered ones but much quieter.
2. Super Sneaky: BEST reduces noise and emissions, making submarines hard to find.
3. Proven in Combat: Spain has tested BEST on land, and it's already working in the new Isaac Peral submarine.
Big Competition for Project-75I:
India's Project-75I is a big deal. They want to build six new-generation submarines in their own country. Spain's S-80 Plus and Germany's TKMS' Type 214 are top choices, but there are others too.
Why Spain's Move Matters:
Spain is really pushing to win the contract. Inviting the Indian Navy to check out their BEST AIP system shows how serious the competition is. If India likes what they see, it could help Spain win the deal.
But It's Not Just About Tech:
It's not only about cool technology. India will also consider things like transferring technology, building stuff in India, and how much everything costs before picking the winner. The decision is a big deal for both countries.
