India's Project 75I Reaches Crucial Phase as Germany and Spain Showcase Advanced AIP Submarines

India's ambitious Project-75I, aimed at bolstering its naval capabilities with six state-of-the-art conventional submarines, has entered a critical phase. This multi-billion dollar initiative has seen heightened competition between Germany’s Thyssenkrupp Marine Systems (TKMS) and Spain’s Navantia, both of which have recently completed successful trials of their Air Independent Propulsion (AIP) systems.

Initially, TKMS was hesitant to participate in the bidding process due to stringent terms and conditions. However, with the backing of the German government, they decided to join the fray. Khalil Rahman, the head of TKMS India, highlighted that their decision was bolstered by a shift in German foreign policy following the invasion of Ukraine, emphasizing the importance of a strategic partnership with India.

During the recent Field Evaluation Trials (FET), TKMS showcased the AIP capabilities of their Type 212 submarine. The demonstration, conducted under the scrutiny of the Indian Navy, highlighted the technological prowess of TKMS, especially with their proven AIP system. Rahman confidently noted that their Type 214 submarine, tailored specifically to Indian requirements, would offer unparalleled stealth and performance. The design for the P-75I will be handed over to the Indian Navy, ensuring a seamless integration into India’s defense infrastructure.

On the other side, Navantia presented its AIP capabilities through the new S80 class submarine, which recently joined the Spanish Navy. Navantia has partnered with Larsen & Toubro (L&T) for this project, ensuring a robust industrial collaboration. The S80 class submarine, noted for its advanced technology and design, was rigorously evaluated by the Indian Navy team in June.

The AIP system, a focal point in these trials, significantly enhances a submarine's operational endurance and stealth by allowing it to remain submerged for extended periods without surfacing. TKMS’s AIP system is particularly noteworthy as it combines both fuel cell and Lithium Ion technologies, providing a versatile range of performance benefits. Fuel cells offer long-range endurance at low speeds, while Lithium Ion batteries enable high-speed operations.

The Project-75I initiative, valued at over ₹43,000 crore, stipulates that the first submarine must have 45% indigenous content, increasing to 60% by the sixth submarine. The contract also mandates that the first submarine be delivered within 84 months of signing. The FETs were a crucial step in this process, focusing solely on demonstrating the AIP capabilities of the submarines.

As both contenders await the final decision, the project has garnered significant attention at the highest levels of government. German Chancellor Olaf Scholz is set to visit India for inter-governmental consultations in October, while Prime Minister Narendra Modi is expected to visit Spain in the coming months. These high-level discussions are likely to include deliberations on the submarine deal, underscoring its strategic importance.

Since World War II, TKMS has built 175 submarines, with 52 AIP-equipped models currently in operation or under contract worldwide. This extensive experience, combined with their proven technology, positions TKMS as a formidable contender in this competition.

The outcome of Project-75I will not only enhance India’s maritime security but also strengthen its strategic partnerships with leading global defense manufacturers. As the Indian Navy moves closer to finalizing this deal, the collaboration with either Germany or Spain will mark a significant milestone in India’s naval modernization efforts.