India and Germany are preparing to conclude one of the country’s largest-ever defence procurement programmes, with the long-awaited Project-75I submarine contract reportedly nearing its final stage. The agreement, valued at more than ₹90,000 crore, will pave the way for the construction of six advanced conventional submarines for the Indian Navy under the Make in India initiative.
The programme is expected to be executed through a partnership between Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders Limited (MDL) and Germany’s Thyssenkrupp Marine Systems (TKMS). Rather than importing fully built submarines, the project focuses on manufacturing the vessels in India with substantial technology transfer, supporting the country’s long-term objective of strengthening indigenous defence production.
The submarines will be based on the proven Type-214 design and are expected to incorporate Air Independent Propulsion (AIP) technology. This capability enables submarines to remain submerged for significantly longer durations than conventional diesel-electric boats, reducing their chances of detection during extended missions. Enhanced stealth, improved endurance and advanced combat management systems are expected to make these platforms among the most capable conventional submarines in the Indian Navy’s fleet.
Project-75I has remained under discussion for several years due to its technological complexity and commercial negotiations. With most major issues reportedly resolved, officials now expect the agreement to be signed in the near future, marking a major milestone in India-Germany defence cooperation. German Ambassador Philipp Ackermann has also expressed confidence that the deal could be concluded soon.
For the Indian Navy, the programme is expected to play a crucial role in replacing ageing underwater assets while strengthening maritime deterrence across the Indian Ocean Region. The induction of six new-generation submarines will improve the Navy’s capability to conduct surveillance, anti-submarine warfare, sea-denial operations and strategic patrols in an increasingly contested maritime environment.
Beyond military capability, the contract is also expected to provide a significant boost to India’s defence manufacturing ecosystem. The extensive transfer of technology, local production and participation of domestic suppliers are likely to create long-term industrial benefits while enhancing India’s expertise in complex submarine construction.
If finalised as anticipated, the Project-75I agreement will represent a landmark achievement in India’s naval modernisation programme and further deepen strategic defence cooperation between New Delhi and Berlin.