India’s Nod Awaited for German Submarine Deal: Envoy
TKMS-Mazagon deal awaits final Indian approvals, with technology transfer and local production
New Delhi: German ambassador Jasper Wieck said on Wednesday that Germany was ready to sign a proposed deal to build six conventional diesel-electric submarines for the Indian Navy once the remaining Indian approvals were in place.
The proposed agreement between German defence company Thyssenkrupp Marine Systems (TKMS) and Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders Ltd could cost about Rs 90,000 crore.
Mr Wieck told reporters that the project would involve production in India and technology transfer, making it a technology partnership rather than simply a sale of submarines. He said it would benefit several companies and strengthen cooperation and capabilities.
The ambassador also welcomed the India-EU Free Trade Agreement announced in January and expressed confidence that it would be signed by the end of the year. He praised India’s role in efforts to end the Russia-Ukraine war. India has been in contact with both sides and has urged dialogue and diplomacy.