Indian Navy issues RFI for six P-75I AIP submarines

The Indian Navy has issued a request for information (RFI) to six foreign companies for the design and construction of six Project 75I air-independent propulsion submarines.

Among the shortlisted companies for the €8.3-billion project are Russia’s Rosoboronexport Rubin Design Bureau, French Naval Group (former DCNS), Germany’s ThyssenKrupp Marine Systems, Spain’s Navantia, Sweden’s Saab and Japan’s Mitsubishi Heavy Industries and Kawasaki Heavy Industries, according to a report by The Hindu.

The navy is seeking designs for submarines which are currently in service or undergoing sea trials, the report said citing anonymous officials.

The six submarines are to be built in collaboration with an Indian shipbuilder under a transfer of technology agreement that would be outlined later in the process.

According to the report, the RFI is seeking input on the design of torpedo tubes, land attack capability and endurance and stealth features of the proposed submarines, in addition to the air-independent propulsion system.