Navy's Fifth Scorpene-Class Made-In-India Submarine Sails Out For First Sea Trial

After commissioning, the submarine, which was launched in November 2020 at Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders Ltd's Kanhoji Angre Wet Basin, will be called Vagir, IANS reported.

Representational Image. (Source: Getty Images)

New Delhi: The Indian Navy on Wednesday said that the fifth submarine of Project 75, Yard 11879, of the Kalvari class, has begun sea trials.

After commissioning, the submarine, which was launched in November 2020 at Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders Ltd's Kanhoji Angre Wet Basin, will be called Vagir, IANS reported.

Despite the ongoing Covid pandemic, MDL 'delivered' two Project 75 submarines in 2021, and the beginning of sea testing for the fifth submarine is a noteworthy milestone.

All of the submarine's systems, including propulsion, weaponry, and sensors, will now be tested extensively at sea. Following the completion of these trials, it is expected to be delivered to the Navy this year.

INS Vela, the fourth submarine in Project-75's six-submarine series, was inducted into the Navy last year.

The MDL is building the Scorpene Class submarines in conjunction with Naval Group, formerly DCNS, France.

The Scorpene submarines are exceptionally powerful boats, having sophisticated stealth characteristics and long-range guided torpedoes as well as anti-ship missiles.

These submarines contain a cutting-edge SONAR and sensor package, allowing for exceptional operating capabilities.

As a propulsion motor, they use an advanced Permanent Magnetic Synchronous motor (PERMASYN).

The new Vela continues on the heritage of her namesake, the former INS Vela, which was commissioned as the lead boat of the Vela class submarines on August 31, 1973.

She was not just a training ground for numerous submariners, but she also had some notable operational successes during her long and storied service. The submarine served the nation well for 37 years and was the longest active submarine at the time of its retirement on January 25, 2010.

(With IANS Inputs)