Indian Navy Explores Dual Strategy for Kalvari Submarine Torpedo Upgrades Both Indigenous and Global

Defense News ,India :- In a bid to promote Make in India initiatives in defense while addressing immediate operational needs, the Indian Navy is actively considering proposals to equip the Kalvari submarines with torpedoes, utilizing both indigenous and global procurement routes. These proposals are set to be deliberated upon in a high-level defense ministry meeting scheduled for next week.

According to defense sources, the Indian Navy is contemplating two key proposals. The first involves acquiring 48 heavy-weight torpedoes through a global tender, while the second focuses on integrating the Made in India Electrical Heavyweight Torpedo, developed by the Defense Research and Development Organization (DRDO).

This marks the third attempt by the Indian Navy to procure torpedoes via the global route, with previous efforts facing setbacks due to various issues. The initial tender, which had almost been finalized, was canceled amid corruption allegations against the Italian group involved in the VVIP Chopper scam case.

The Indian EHWT program, a product of indigenous research and development, is envisioned not only for the Kalvari submarines but also for potential use in arming strategic submarines in the future.

While India initially projected a requirement for approximately 98 torpedoes, advancements in the indigenous torpedo program have led to a significant reduction of over 50% in the planned imports. India currently operates six Kalvari-class submarines, with three more slated for acquisition based on announcements from India and France.

Looking ahead, India is actively planning to expand its strategic submarine fleet through its indigenous military capability development program. The upcoming defense ministry meeting is expected to play a crucial role in determining the trajectory of torpedo upgrades for the Kalvari submarines, combining a mix of global procurement and indigenous development to meet the evolving needs of the Indian Navy.