IT’S ADVANTAGE GERMANY IN CONTEST FOR NEXTGEN CONVENTIONAL SUBMARINES

Why in the news?

  • In the fierce battle to build the Indian Navy’s next generation of conventional submarines, Germany now has the upper hand.
  • The German proposal, headed by Thyssenkrupp Marine Systems (TKMS), is presently ahead of rival Spanish company Navantia following the conclusion of trials and the progression of the selection procedure to the following round.

IT’S ADVANTAGE GERMANY IN CONTEST FOR NEXTGEN CONVENTIONAL SUBMARINES - UPSC

About the German Advantage

  • Partnerships: For a ₹43,000-crore deal to build six submarines for the Indian Navy, TKMS of Germany has teamed up with Mazagon Dockyards Limited (MDL).
  • Technology Advantage: By enabling submarines to remain submerged for extended periods of time, innovative Air-Independent Propulsion (AIP) systems are included in TKMS’s bid.
  • Issues with Competitors: The Spanish rival company Navantia, which is partnered with L&T, is at a disadvantage in the tender criteria since their solution does not include an operating AIP system.
Thyssenkrupp Marine Systems (TKMS)

  • Overview: Thyssenkrupp Marine Systems (TKMS) is a top supplier of navy surface ships and non-nuclear submarines worldwide.
  • Important Products: The Type 214 and Type 212A submarines built by TKMS are well-known for their cutting-edge technology and effective operation.
  • Global Presence: TKMS is based in Germany and has supplied more than 160 submarines to 20 navies across the globe.

Indian Navy 

  • Indian Navy was formally founded on January 26, 1950.
  • Fleet: The aircraft carriers, destroyers, frigates, submarines, and support boats that make up the Indian Navy’s varied fleet are all in service. Submarines of the Sindhughosh and Scorpene classes are presently part of its fleet.
  • Headquarters: New Delhi.