Vagir during its sea trials. (Photo: Indian Navy)
New Delhi: The Indian Navy got the delivery of fifth Kalvari-class Scorpene submarine, Vagir, built under Project-75, on Tuesday. The diesel-electric attack submarine is expected to be commissioned into the Navy in January 2023.
Under the Project-75, six submarines were to be built by the Mumbai-based Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders Limited in partnership with France’s Naval Group.
The Vagir, which was launched on November 12, 2020, started its sea trials from February 1, 2022. In a statement, the Navy said: “It is a matter of great pride that she has completed all major trials, including the weapon and sensor trials, in the shortest time in comparison to the earlier submarines.” The statement further said it was a “notable achievement” is that this is the third submarine delivered to the Indian Navy in a span of 24 months.
The other submarines constructed under Project-75 are: INS Kalvari, commissioned on October 27, 2015; INS Khanderi, commissioned on January 12; INS Karanj, commissioned on January 31, 2018; and INS Vela, commissioned on May 6, 2019. The sixth and last submarine under the project, Vagsheer, was launched on April 20, 2022, and is currently undergoing sea trials. It is expected to be commissioned sometime in March 2024.
