The Indian Navy’s INS Kalvari, the first of the six Kalvari-class submarines, is set to undergo a major upgrade in mid-2024. The upgrade includes the installation of the indigenous Air Independent Propulsion (AIP) system developed by the Defense Research and Development Organization (DRDO).

The AIP system will enable the submarine to stay submerged for longer periods of time, enhancing its operational capabilities. The DRDO AIP system uses hydrogen fuel cells that can produce electricity without the need for oxygen, enabling the submarine to remain underwater for extended periods.

“DRDO AIP system on the INS Kalvari is a significant milestone for the Indian Navy’s submarine program”

The installation of the DRDO AIP system on the INS Kalvari is a significant milestone for the Indian Navy’s submarine program. It will make the submarine stealthier, and more lethal, and enhance its range, making it a potent asset for the Indian Navy’s operations.

In addition to the upgrade of INS Kalvari, the Indian Navy will also commission three new Kalvari-class submarines, each equipped with the DRDO AIP system. The submarines are expected to be commissioned in the coming years, further bolstering India’s underwater warfare capabilities.

The Kalvari-class submarines are designed by French naval defense and energy company DCNS and built under a technology transfer agreement with the Indian government. The submarines have a displacement of 1,550 tonnes and are equipped with a variety of weapons and sensors.

The Kalvari-class submarines are part of the Indian Navy’s Project 75, which aims to acquire six conventional submarines with advanced stealth features and AIP technology. The Indian Navy’s submarine force is currently dominated by aging Soviet-era submarines, and the induction of the Kalvari-class submarines with the DRDO AIP system will provide a much-needed boost to its underwater warfare capabilities.

The Indian Navy has been ramping up its naval modernization program in recent years, with a focus on indigenization and technology development. The DRDO AIP system is a prime example of this effort, and its successful installation on the INS Kalvari is a testament to the country’s growing technological prowess.

In conclusion, the upgrade of INS Kalvari with the DRDO AIP system and the commissioning of three new Kalvari-class submarines with the same technology is a significant development for India’s submarine program. The submarines equipped with DRDO AIP will give the Indian Navy an edge in underwater warfare and enhance its ability to operate in contested waters. The Indian Navy’s commitment to modernization and indigenization bodes well for the future, and the DRDO AIP system is a testament to its growing technological capabilities.