The Decision to Procure Additional Scorpene-Class Submarines
The Indian Navy is set to finalize a ₹36,000 crore deal for three additional Scorpene-class submarines. However, this acquisition has drawn criticism due to its high cost and limited technology transfer, especially when compared to the parallel development of nuclear-powered attack submarines (SSNs). Critics argue that the price tag is comparable to SSNs, yet these new submarines lack even an Air-Independent Propulsion (AIP) system.
The AIP Dilemma: A Missed Opportunity
Understanding MESMA AIP
The Scorpene-class submarines were originally designed to incorporate the MESMA AIP, which relies on moving parts to generate additional underwater endurance. However, the Indian Navy mandated the development of an indigenous AIP system through DRDO, aiming for a more advanced proton-exchange membrane (PEM) fuel cell-based system.
The Initial Plan for AIP Integration
India ordered six Scorpene-class submarines under Project 75, with an initial plan to equip the last two submarines with DRDO’s AIP. Unfortunately, delays in AIP development meant that the last two submarines were also commissioned without this critical technology.
Retrofitting AIP: A Costly and Complex Process
Currently, efforts are underway to retrofit the first Project 75 submarine with the DRDO AIP system. This process involves cutting open the submarine’s hull and installing an AIP plug, which increases the vessel’s length and displacement. These modifications raise concerns regarding:
- Center of mass alterations, which could impact stability.
- Changes in the operational envelope of these hunter-killer submarines.
- Significant cost escalations due to engineering complexities.
Comparing Costs: Conventional vs. Nuclear-Powered Submarines
The estimated cost of these three additional Scorpene-class submarines is between ₹35,000–₹45,000 crore. Adding the DRDO AIP system will further increase this cost. However, a striking comparison emerges:
- India has only 40% technology transfer from the French manufacturer, limiting domestic capability building.
- Recently, the Government of India approved ₹40,000 crore for developing nuclear-powered attack submarines (SSNs). This budget includes both R&D and manufacturing costs.
- Effectively, the price of these three Scorpene-class submarines is nearly equivalent to the development of an entirely new class of indigenous nuclear submarines.
Is the Cost Justified?
The French manufacturer recognizes that Project 75I—India’s next-generation conventional submarine program—is currently stalled. This situation presents a lucrative opportunity for the Scorpene-class manufacturer to maximize profits. Selling conventional submarines without AIP at a price comparable to nuclear-powered attack submarines suggests a highly inflated cost structure.
Should India Shift to an All-Nuclear Submarine Fleet?
Given the comparable costs, a critical question arises: Should India abandon further conventional submarine acquisitions and focus entirely on nuclear-powered attack submarines?
- SSNs offer unlimited endurance and superior capabilities compared to diesel-electric submarines (SSKs) without AIP.
- The timeline for SSN development might be longer, but the technological and strategic benefits outweigh the risks.
- Investing in nuclear propulsion would align with India’s long-term self-reliance (Atmanirbhar Bharat) initiative.
In Nutshell
The Indian Navy faces a complex decision. Proceeding with additional Scorpene-class submarines without AIP at a steep cost raises concerns over value for money. Shifting the focus toward nuclear-powered attack submarines could ensure greater strategic capability while maintaining cost parity. The debate underscores the importance of long-term planning, cost-effectiveness, and indigenous defense development in shaping India’s naval power for the future.
With India’s P-75I program facing delays due to stringent AIP requirements and limited foreign participation, French shipbuilder Naval Group has capitalized on the situation by inflating the cost of conventional submarines. Reports suggest that the price of the proposed non-AIP Scorpène-class submarines under follow-on orders is being pushed to levels comparable to nuclear-powered attack submarines (SSNs), despite lacking similar endurance and strategic advantages. This pricing strategy leverages India’s urgent need to scale-up its underwater fleet, forcing the Indian Navy to consider high-cost solutions while indigenous AIP development remains in progress.
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