Indian Navy to Operate Five Nuc Subs by 2020

10.04.2012 Indian Navy will be ready to maintain and operate five nuclear-powered submarines by 2020, reported news agency Brahmand.

According to Indian defense minister A.K. Antony, India is presently considering Russia's offer to take another nuclear sub on lease and plans to build two Arihant-class subs to protect its sea borders.

Akula II class submarine leased from Russia was commissioned into Indian Navy on Apr 4 under name of INS Chakra. Lead sub of Arihant project designed and built in India will be launched in the nearest future and start appropriate trials.

India plans to build up strength of nuclear-powered submarine force, government allocates funds for that, added the minister.

At present, Indian Navy operates 10 conventional diesel electric submarines (Kilo-class and HDW) and intends to add other 12 within the next decade.

Six Scorpene-class subs are being currently built by Mazagon Dockyards in Mumbai under joint project with DCNS (France). Other six Type 75 submarines are to be constructed by own efforts.

Commenting bilateral relations, Russian Ambassador to India A.M. Kadakin called India "a privileged strategic partner" and said Russia would produce whatever India needed.

Russia continues construction of three Talwar-class frigates for India. Two of them are to be delivered in 2012.