Saturday, May 10, 2008

India to float global tenders for six conventional submarines

India will soon float a global tender for six conventional submarines and develop a nuclear powered submarine in Mumbai.

“The DRDO is in the process of developing a nuclear powered submarine, codenamed the 'Advanced Technology Vessel', which could either be equipped with conventional or nuclear weapons, Chief of Naval staff, Admiral Sureesh Mehta said. "The DRDO project will demonstrate the technology of these (nuclear submarines) and we hope someone will develop the nuclear powered submarine
technology for the navy in future," Mehta said. The Naval chief also said the government would soon float global tenders for six conventional submarines, apart from the six French Scorpene being built at Mazgaon docks here. "In accordance with the plan to keep a certain number of submarines in the force, we will be acquiring six of one type (Scorpene) and six of another type," Mehta said at a press conference, marking the end of the two-day-long naval commanders' conference held here. The six additional submarines that the Indian navy would be looking to acquire would need to be equipped with technology for surface-to-surface missiles to cater to current requirements, the Chief of Naval Staff said. The Indian Navy presently has 16 submarines in its fleet and is looking to lease Akula class nuclear powered submarines from Russia. The ship, which is in good condition, is to take part in the Varuna naval exercise being held off the eastern coast with ships of the French navy.

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