NEW DELHI - The Indian Navy will have to wait longer for its new diesel-electric submarines. Indian Defense Minister Manohar Parrikar announced a further delay in the induction of the first of six Scorpene-class submarines. The length of this delay is unknown.
The first boat was to be delivered in September 2016. The Scorpene-class will carry SM39 Exocet anti-ship missiles.
New Delhi wants to provide the Indian Navy with a modern submarine fleet. China is expanding its submarine fleet, while Pakistan is modernizing its in-service boats.
India awarded a $4.16 billion contract for new submarines in October 2005. This is Project 75. DCNS will build six Scorpene-class submarines at the Mazagon Docks in Mumbai, India. This contract includes an option for the construction of six more boats.
Mazagon Docks Limited (MDL) is reportedly facing difficulties procuring certain materials from foreign vendors.
Readiness within the Indian submarine fleet is below 40 percent. Certain boats, especially the SSK U209 class, are in need of urgent upgrades.