Mumbai: India added another strong vessel to its naval might with the launch of its second Scorpene-class submarine INS Khanderi on Thursday.
INS Khanderi, which was launched at Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders Limited (MDL), combines superior stealth technology with an ability to launch crippling attacks with torpedoes and missiles. The submarine has been indigenously-built and is expected to undergo extensive trials at sea and harbour till December 2017 to test all its equipments before it is commissioned into the Indian Navy. The submarine is designed to operate in all theatres, including the tropics. All means and communications are provided to ensure interoperability with other components of a Naval task force.
It can undertake multifarious types of missions typically undertaken by any modern submarine, i.e anti-surface warfare, anti-submarine warfare, intelligence gathering, mine laying, area surveillance, etc. Union minister of state for defence Subhash Bhamre presided over the function for the the launch of Khanderi.
The submarine was launched by the Union minister’s wife, Bina Bhamre, in presence of chief of the Naval Staff, admiral Sunil Lanba.
The submarine has been christened after its illustrious predecessor, an erstwhile ‘Foxtrot’ class submarine decommissioned in 1989, which is as per the traditions of Indian Navy.
“Project 75 Kalvari is a key milestone in self reliance and indigenisation for the country,” Bhamre said.
Admiral Lanba said the fact that Khanderi compares with the best in the world, speaks highly of the experience and expertise our shipbuilders have gained over the years.
“As Indian Navy celebrates Golden Jubilee of the submarine arm in 2017, the induction of Project 75 submarines would mark the beginning of a new chapter in our submarine capabilities,” he said.
The features of this Scorpene class submarine include superior stealth and the ability to launch a crippling attack on the enemy using precision guided weapon. The attack can be launched with torpedoes, as well as tube-launched anti-ship missiles, whilst underwater or on surface. Khanderi is named after the island fort of Maratha forces, which played a vital role in ensuring their supremacy at sea.
