NEW DELHI: Indian Navy is set to commission the fifth Kalvari class submarine "Vagir" on Monday, which will boost its underwater combat capability. The submarine is equipped with long range guided torpedoes as well as anti-ship missiles.
The submarine is a potent platform with an ability to undertake the entire spectrum of operations. It has the ability to launch a crippling attack on enemy with torpedoes as well as tube-launched anti-ship missiles whilst underwater or on surface. Vagir has the ability to carry out multifarious missions typically undertaken by any modern submarine, which include anti-surface warfare, anti-submarine warfare, intelligence gathering, mine laying and area surveillance.
The scorpene class submarines are being built in India by the Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders Limited (MDL) Mumbai, under collaboration with M/s Naval Group (earlier DCNS), France. Under Project-75 six submarines are to be constructed.
Earlier in November 2021, Indian Navy had commissioned the fourth scorpene-class submarine INS Vela that formed part of the Western Naval Command’s submarine fleet.
Vagir has the distinction of having the lowest build time among all indigenously manufactured submarines till date.
Vagir commenced the sea trials from February 2022 and it completed all major trials including the weapon and sensor trials in the shortest time in comparison to the earlier submarines.
