Russia Rekindles Interest in India's Project 75I, Offers Amur 1650 Submarine with 80% Localization and AIP Technology
In a surprising yet strategically significant move, Russia has reignited its interest in India's Project 75I submarine program after previously withdrawing from the tender process in 2022. The Project 75I initiative, aimed at bolstering the Indian Navy’s underwater capabilities with six new-generation diesel-electric submarines, is a pivotal part of India’s efforts to modernize its naval fleet.
Igor V. Vilnit, the CEO of Rubin Design Bureau—Russia’s prestigious submarine design firm—has announced Russia's willingness to collaborate on this ambitious project. This comes as an interesting turn of events, particularly since Russia had earlier opted out, citing concerns over the stringent terms and conditions laid out by India. Back then, issues like demanding deadlines and the immense responsibility placed on the designer became stumbling blocks. However, the tides have shifted, and now Russia seems ready to accommodate India's evolving defense manufacturing goals, particularly under the banners of "Make in India" and "Aatmanirbhar Bharat" (Self-Reliant India).
The Amur 1650: Russia’s Submarine Proposal
At the heart of Russia’s renewed bid is the Amur 1650, a diesel-electric submarine that has long been praised for its capabilities in anti-submarine warfare (ASW) and anti-surface warfare. Designed by the Rubin Design Bureau, this submarine comes as a modernized version of the Kilo-class submarines that have already served India’s Navy for decades, meaning there's a strong foundation of trust and familiarity with the technology.
What makes the Amur 1650 particularly appealing for India’s Project 75I is Russia's offer of **80% localization** in the production process. This implies that most of the submarine’s construction could take place within India, involving local industry and creating thousands of skilled jobs. It also aligns perfectly with India’s goal of boosting domestic defense production.
AIP Technology for Extended Endurance
One of the standout features of Russia's Amur 1650 proposal is the integration of **Air-Independent Propulsion (AIP)** technology. Submarines traditionally rely on surfacing or snorkeling to recharge their batteries, which makes them vulnerable to detection. AIP allows submarines to remain submerged for longer periods without needing to surface, thus enhancing their stealth and operational capabilities.
Russia has offered a version of the Amur 1650 with this technology, which is crucial for prolonged underwater operations, especially in the context of India’s strategic requirements. There were initial concerns about the Russian AIP system's readiness, but Russia has taken a step further by offering to incorporate India’s own **DRDO-developed AIP system**, should India prefer it. This flexibility not only underscores Russia’s commitment to collaborating on this project but also emphasizes the potential for deeper Indo-Russian defense cooperation in areas beyond mere technology transfer.
Potential Competition with Germany’s TKMS
Despite Russia’s eagerness to rejoin the competition, it is important to note that Germany’s ThyssenKrupp Marine Systems (TKMS) and its U-214 submarine are also strong contenders for Project 75I. The U-214 is another diesel-electric submarine that has proven its capabilities worldwide. It boasts advanced stealth features, powerful propulsion systems, and cutting-edge sonar technology. As of now, it is believed that India has favored Germany’s offer, although no final decisions have been made.
However, Russia’s Amur 1650 brings its own set of strengths to the table. Besides the generous localization offer, the Indian Navy is already familiar with Russian submarines, and any partnership would build on existing knowledge, infrastructure, and long-standing bilateral defense ties. Furthermore, Russia’s promise to incorporate India’s own AIP technology could make the Amur 1650 a more flexible and attractive option for the Navy.
A Strategic Decision for the Indian Navy
The cost of the Project 75I program is estimated at over ₹40,000 crore (approximately $5 billion USD). Beyond the financial investment, this project represents a major decision point for India’s defense strategy. India must not only choose a submarine that meets its operational needs but also align its decision with broader geopolitical interests.
Russia’s re-entry into the fray provides a compelling option, especially considering the historical defense ties between the two nations. The Amur 1650 offers India a state-of-the-art platform with the option to strengthen local defense production, while its AIP system—or the potential integration of India’s own—offers flexibility that could suit the Indian Navy's future operational needs.
The big question now is: will India opt for the more familiar partnership with Russia, or will it embrace the technological allure of Germany’s U-214? Whatever the choice, this decision is poised to shape India's naval capabilities for decades to come, and both Russia and Germany have made clear they are eager to be a part of this future.
