New Delhi: The Defence Ministry has greenlit the Indian Navy’s ambitious plan to develop 100-tonne unmanned underwater vessels, with an investment exceeding Rs 2,500 crore. The newly approved underwater vessels, classified as Extra Large, will be equipped with advanced strike capabilities to target enemy submarines and surface vessels. These vessels will provide the Navy with a unique edge in underwater operations, allowing for tasks such as laying and clearing mines, conducting surveillance, and launching weapons.
Former Navy Vice Chief Vice Admiral SN Ghormade highlighted that these vessels will enable the Navy to perform multiple operations effectively and bolster its capabilities in the underwater domain.
Project and procurement details
The Navy plans to issue a tender for the project in the coming months. Indian shipyards will have the opportunity to bid for this under the Aatmanirbharta initiative and the Make-1 procedure.
The Navy seeks vessels that can remain submerged for extended durations and at long distances from shore to monitor suspicious activities and safeguard national interests.
Future warfare and unmanned capabilities
This initiative is part of the Navy’s broader strategy to prepare for future warfare by enhancing unmanned capabilities. The force is also focusing on unmanned surface vessels and long-range surveillance drones, such as the MQ-9B and Drishti Hermes 900, which are already being employed in global conflicts.
With ANI inputs
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