New Delhi. 18 March 2021. Indian Navy has placed orders for following indigenous aircraft and submarines:-
Aircraft by Hindustan Aeronautics Ltd (HAL)
(i) 12 Dorniers
(ii) 16 Advanced Light Helicopters (ALH MK III)
(iii) 8 Chetak helicopters
Submarines: Six Scorpene class submarines are being built by Mazagon Dock and Shipbuilders Limited (MDL) under Project-75.
There are some delays in the projects. Reasons for delays are as follows:-
(1) Aircraft: The deliveries have been delayed due to the supply chain disruptions caused by COVID-19 pandemic.
(2) Submarines: The delays have been caused due to the various defects observed during the trials of the submarines, requirement of certain modifications and delays in the supply of items required for construction by the collaborator / ToT provider – Naval Group, France.
The outbreak of Covid-19 pandemic has further impacted the delivery schedule of the submarines.
In the interest of national security, the details cannot be divulged. However, the existing submarine fleet is being maintained combat worthy through life extension & modernization/upgradation.
