Defence Ministry Approves ₹2,500 Crore Unmanned Underwater Vessels Project for Indian Navy

The Defence Ministry has approved the Indian Navy's ₹2,500 crore proposal to build 100-tonne unmanned underwater vessels. These vessels will enhance the Navy's capabilities in underwater warfare and surveillance. The project will soon be tendered with Indian shipyards expected to participate under the Aatmanirbharta initiative.

The Defence Ministry has given the green light for the Indian Navy's ₹2,500 crore plan to construct 100-tonne unmanned underwater vessels. Sources revealed that the clearance came during a recent high-level meeting.

These Extra Large underwater vessels, weighing over 100 tonnes, will be equipped with striking abilities against enemy submarines and surface ships. Former Navy Vice Chief Vice Admiral SN Ghormade highlighted the vessels' potential to enhance the Navy’s operations in the underwater domain and conduct multiple missions.

The Navy aims to utilize these vessels for a range of activities, including mine laying, mine clearance, surveillance, and weapon deployment. A tender for the project is expected to be issued in the coming months, with Indian shipyards set to bid under the Make-1 procedure as part of the Aatmanirbharta initiative.

The vessels are designed to operate underwater for extended periods, monitoring suspicious activities and safeguarding national security. The Indian Navy is progressively enhancing its capabilities for future warfare by upgrading its unmanned assets.

Already, the Navy has been employing unmanned surface vessels in global conflicts to neutralize large targets. Additionally, its unmanned long-range surveillance capabilities have been bolstered through drones like the MQ-9B and Drishti Hermes 900, with future expansions planned.