The Indian Navy’s final Kalvari class submarine, Vaghsheer, began her sea trials on Thursday (May 18) and is expected to be commissioned into the force by early next year. Built under Project-75, the submarine is set to enhance the Navy's combat capability as China has been increasing its presence in the Indian Ocean region. Project-75 includes the indigenous construction of six submarines. Five of the Kalvari class submarines have already been commissioned into the Indian Navy. Vaghsheer is scheduled for delivery to the Indian Navy in early 2024 after the completion of the sea trials.
The submarine was launched in April last year from the Kanhoji Angre Wet Basin of the Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders Limited (MDL). India has been focusing on bolstering its maritime capability with a focus on the Indian Ocean in the backdrop of concerns over China's growing forays into the region, considered the backyard of the Indian Navy.
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The submarines were constructed at the Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders Limited (MDL) in Mumbai in collaboration with the Naval Group of France.
The MDL has delivered three submarines of Project-75 in 24 months and the commencement of sea trials of the sixth submarine is a significant milestone. This is indicative of the boost towards 'Aatma Nirbhar Bharat' (self-reliant India), the Navy said in a statement.
According to the Indian Navy, the submarine will now undergo intense trials of all its systems at sea, these include propulsion systems, weapons, and sensors.