Procuring Scorpenes fastest way to add submarines, ready for production: Naval Group

New Delhi: Procurement of additional Scorpene submarines is the fastest way to augment the Indian Navy’s fleet, French manufacturer Naval Group has said, adding that it hopes a decision to sign the contract will be taken at the earliest.

In an interview with ET, Naval Group executive VP Eric Balufin said India can become a hub for the upgradation and sustenance of submarines in the region, pointing to several countries that operate the Scorpene class.

“In comparison to any new submarine design, which involves longer development cycles, new capital investment by the shipyard, new learning curves, and associated costs, Project 75 Additional Submarines will build on the skills already acquired by MDL, enabling manufacturing to begin as soon as the contract is signed,” he said.

An order for three additional Scorpene submarines – known as the Kalvari class in India – has been under discussion between the defence ministry and Mazagon Dockyards Limited (MDL), which has already delivered six submarines in partnership with Naval Group.

The executive noted that discussions and commercial negotiations for the additional submarines were completed by MDL with the Indian government in early 2025, and expressed hope that a final decision to sign the contract would be taken soon.

“Naval Group, along with MDL, is ready to immediately begin construction by deputing the necessary skilled resources. It is the fastest way to add submarines to the Indian fleet,” he said, describing the additional submarines as a “rapid, low-risk solution”. He added producing the latest version could also open up opportunities beyond India, including joint exports to friendly partner nations. Balufin further said that the natural progression would be for India to emerge as a Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul hub for Scorpene-class submarines.

The remarks come after the recent visit of French President Emmanuel Macron to India last month, during which he highlighted expanded defence cooperation with India, including in the field of submarines and fighter jets.

Indian Navy is currently working on signing a contract for six new submarines with MDL under Project 75I. These submarines will be equipped with Air Independent Propulsion, providing them the ability to remain underwater for weeks. Germany’s TKMS has been selected as the technology partner for the project.