India and France Finalize Deal for Three Additional Scorpene Submarines
India and France have concluded a major defense agreement to construct three more Scorpene-class submarines at Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders Limited.
2-Minute Summary (TL;DR)
- India and France have signed a deal for three additional Scorpene-class submarines to be built at Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders Limited (MDL).
- The project is an extension of the successful Project-75, which previously involved the construction of six Scorpene submarines.
- France's Naval Group will provide technical assistance for the construction of these advanced submarines.
- The new submarines will feature enhanced stealth capabilities and higher indigenous content.
- Integration of Air-Independent Propulsion (AIP) systems is planned, significantly increasing underwater endurance.
- This acquisition aims to bolster India's naval power and strategic presence in the Indian Ocean Region (IOR).
- The deal reinforces the strategic defense partnership between India and France.
- The project aligns with India's 'Make in India' and 'Atmanirbhar Bharat' initiatives for defense self-reliance.
How This Topic is Tested in Competitive Exams
| Exam | Frequency | Approx. Marks | What Gets Asked |
|---|---|---|---|
| UPSC / State PCS | Medium | 4–8 | UPSC focuses on strategic aspects: defence policy, Indo-Pacific, border issues, and bilateral defence deals. |
| SSC (CGL / CHSL / MTS) | High | 3–5 | Defence acquisitions, military exercises, and appointments appear in SSC GK. |
Key Facts to Remember: India and France Finalize Deal for Three Additional Scorpene Submarines
- India and France have signed a deal for three additional Scorpene-class submarines to be built at Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders Limited (MDL).
- The project is an extension of the successful Project-75, which previously involved the construction of six Scorpene submarines.
- France's Naval Group will provide technical assistance for the construction of these advanced submarines.
- The new submarines will feature enhanced stealth capabilities and higher indigenous content.
- Integration of Air-Independent Propulsion (AIP) systems is planned, significantly increasing underwater endurance.
- This acquisition aims to bolster India's naval power and strategic presence in the Indian Ocean Region (IOR).
- The deal reinforces the strategic defense partnership between India and France.
- The project aligns with India's 'Make in India' and 'Atmanirbhar Bharat' initiatives for defense self-reliance.
Practice Questions
Q1. Which Indian shipyard is contracted to build the three additional Scorpene-class submarines?
- Hindustan Shipyard Limited (HSL)
- Garden Reach Shipbuilders & Engineers (GRSE)
- Cochin Shipyard Limited (CSL)
- Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders Limited (MDL)
Explanation: Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders Limited (MDL) in Mumbai is the designated shipyard for the indigenous construction of the Scorpene-class submarines, including the newly contracted three additional units.
Q2. The Scorpene-class submarines are also known as which class in the Indian Navy?
- Shishumar-class
- Kalvari-class
- Sindhughosh-class
- Chakra-class
Explanation: The Scorpene-class submarines, when inducted into the Indian Navy, are designated as the Kalvari-class, named after the first submarine of this type, INS Kalvari.
Q3. What advanced technology is planned for integration into the new Scorpene-class submarines to enhance their underwater endurance?
- Vertical Launch System (VLS)
- Advanced Sonar Suite
- Air-Independent Propulsion (AIP)
- Ballistic Missile Defense System
Explanation: The deal includes provisions for the integration of Air-Independent Propulsion (AIP) systems. AIP allows conventional submarines to operate submerged for significantly longer periods without needing to surface for air to recharge batteries.
Q4. Which French company is providing technical assistance for the construction of these submarines?
- Dassault Aviation
- Thales Group
- Safran
- Naval Group
Explanation: France's Naval Group, a major naval defense company, is providing the crucial technical assistance and expertise for the construction of the Scorpene-class submarines in India.
Q5. The acquisition of these additional submarines is primarily aimed at strengthening India's capabilities in which strategic region?
- South China Sea
- Arctic Ocean
- Indian Ocean Region (IOR)
- Mediterranean Sea
Explanation: The deal is a key part of India's strategy to maintain a credible and dominant naval presence in the Indian Ocean Region (IOR), which is vital for its economic and security interests.
How to Prepare Defence for Government Exams — India and France Finalize Deal for Three Addition…
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