India is poised to finalise a multi-billion-dollar submarine deal with Germany by the end of March, after the two governments signed an Intergovernmental Agreement (IGA) intended to provide long-term support, technology transfer and export clearances for the project.
Under the agreement, Mazagon Dockyards Limited (MDL), India’s leading shipbuilder, and Germany’s Thyssenkrupp Marine Systems (TKMS) will collaborate to construct six next-generation conventional submarines within India, a key component of the Project 75(I) programme.
The submarines are expected to feature advanced Air Independent Propulsion (AIP) systems that allow extended underwater endurance and increased stealth, significantly strengthening the Indian Navy’s undersea combat capabilities. By boosting domestic shipbuilding expertise and exporting potential, the deal also aligns with broader goals to enhance indigenous defence manufacturing and strategic partnerships.
The first submarines are anticipated to enter service several years after signing, reflecting the technological complexity and scale of the programme.
