Second Scorpene class submarine Khanderi launched in Mumbai

Khanderi, the second Scorpene class submarine that has superior stealth and the ability to launch a crippling attack with torpedoes as well as tube-launched anti-ship missiles whilst underwater or on the surface, was launched at the Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders Ltd here today.

The submarine is designed to operate in all theatres, including the tropics. All means and communications are provided to ensure interoperability with other components of a Naval taskforce.

It can undertake multifarious missions typically undertaken by any modern submarine, i.e anti-surface warfare, anti-submarine warfare, intelligence gathering, mine laying and area surveillance.

Minister of State for Defence Subhash Bhamre presided over the function to initiate the launch of Khanderi (Yard 11876).

The submarine was launched by the minister’s wife, Bina Bhamre, in the presence of the Chief of Naval Staff, Admiral Sunil Lanba.

Khanderi is expected to be delivered to the Navy by the year-end. The submarine has been christened after its illustrious predecessor, an erstwhile ‘Foxtrot’ class submarine decommissioned in 1989, which is in keeping with the traditions of the Indian Navy.

“Project 75 Kalvari is a key milestone in self-reliance and indigenisation for the country,” Bhamre said.

Admiral Lanba said the fact that Khanderi compares with the best in the world, speaks highly of the experience and expertise our shipbuilders have gained over the years.

“As the Indian Navy celebrates the Golden Jubilee of the submarine arm in 2017, the induction of Project 75 submarines would mark the beginning of a new chapter in our submarine capabilities,” he said.

The first of the class submarine, Kalvari, is currently undergoing sea trials and is likely to be commissioned into the Navy by mid-2017. These submarines, post-induction, would form the core of the Navy’s conventional submarine arm.

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