Indian Navy to Commission INS Vagsheer, Final Kalvari-Class Submarine, in December 2024

The Indian Navy is poised to bolster its underwater warfare capabilities with the commissioning of INS Vagsheer, the sixth and final submarine in the Kalvari-class fleet, under the ambitious Project 75. Scheduled for December 2024, this milestone highlights India's push towards modernizing its maritime assets amid a strategic focus on securing the Indian Ocean Region (IOR) from evolving geopolitical threats.

A Modern Submarine with Advanced Capabilities

INS Vagsheer, a diesel-electric attack submarine, represents the culmination of years of Indo-French collaboration and indigenous innovation. Built at the Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders Limited (MDL) in Mumbai with technology transferred from France's Naval Group, the vessel embodies cutting-edge design and operational versatility. The Kalvari-class submarines are known for their ability to perform a diverse range of missions, including anti-surface warfare, anti-submarine warfare, long-range precision strikes, special operations, and intelligence gathering.

The submarine is powered by a propulsion system featuring an air-independent propulsion (AIP) module, significantly enhancing its underwater endurance. Additionally, advanced stealth technology minimizes its acoustic signature, making detection by adversaries exceedingly difficult. INS Vagsheer is armed with Exocet SM39 anti-ship missiles, heavy torpedoes, and modern sonar systems, providing it with formidable firepower and superior tracking abilities.

Launched on April 20, 2022, INS Vagsheer began its sea trials in May 2023. Over the past year, it has undergone rigorous testing to ensure operational readiness, especially for the indigenous systems integrated into its design. These systems symbolize India's growing self-reliance in defence technology, a critical aspect of its strategic objectives.

The Role of the Kalvari-Class Fleet

The Kalvari-class submarines, derived from the French Scorpène design, are a cornerstone of India’s naval strategy. Their stealth capabilities and offensive strength make them ideal for patrolling the expansive Indian Ocean Region. As India faces increasing competition and assertiveness from the Chinese Navy, these submarines serve as a bulwark, enhancing maritime deterrence and operational reach.

The five predecessors of INS Vagsheer—INS Kalvari, Khanderi, Karanj, Vela, and Vagir—have already demonstrated their effectiveness in diverse operational scenarios. The addition of Vagsheer will not only complete the Project 75 series but also pave the way for expanded submarine programs in collaboration with France, as discussions are underway to construct three more Kalvari-class vessels.

Expanding Nuclear Deterrence with SSBNs

While INS Vagsheer signifies advancements in conventional submarine capabilities, the Indian Navy is also enhancing its nuclear deterrence posture. Recently, India inducted INS Arighat, its second Arihant-class nuclear-powered ballistic missile submarine (SSBN). Armed with the K-4 submarine-launched ballistic missile (SLBM), which boasts a range of 3,500 kilometers, INS Arighat solidifies India's second-strike capability.

On November 27, 2024, a K-4 missile was successfully test-fired from INS Arighat, marking a pivotal achievement in the country's nuclear triad. With additional SSBNs, including the larger INS Aridaman, set to join the fleet in the coming years, India is fortifying its strategic deterrence and ensuring credible defence against potential adversaries.

The Future of Indian Underwater Warfare

INS Vagsheer’s commissioning comes at a time when the Indian Navy is striving for a balanced mix of conventional and nuclear-powered submarines. The induction of six Kalvari-class submarines under Project 75 is only the beginning of a long-term vision to build a robust submarine fleet. Future endeavors include Project 75I, aimed at adding six more advanced submarines with AIP technology.

The Kalvari-class submarines, with their adaptability and potent weaponry, represent a crucial step in strengthening India's maritime posture. Combined with the Navy's expanding SSBN capabilities, they underscore India's commitment to safeguarding its maritime sovereignty and securing its strategic interests in the Indo-Pacific region.

The commissioning of INS Vagsheer in December 2024 is a testament to India's growing naval prowess and technological strides in defense production. This state-of-the-art submarine, with its formidable capabilities, will significantly enhance the Indian Navy's operational readiness. As challenges in the Indian Ocean Region intensify, INS Vagsheer and the Kalvari-class fleet are poised to play a pivotal role in ensuring regional stability and protecting India's maritime interests.