Indian submarine rescue system completes air transportability trials

The Indian Navy has successfully completed air transportability trials for the first of two submarine rescue systems being delivered by James Fisher Defence.

The completion of the trials represents a significant milestone in the delivery of a comprehensive submarine rescue capability to the Indian Navy that will enhance safety for submariners.

The trials were performed in conjunction with the Indian Air Force, using the Ilyushin-76 transport aircraft. The trials proved the functionality of the ground handling equipment provided by JFD successfully integrating with the IL-76, allowing for the safe loading and unloading of all elements of the submarine rescue system.

Limiting time to first rescue is crucial to conducting a successful submarine rescue operation. This relies on the fast and effective air deployment of the submarine rescue system to the mother ship that will host the system, enabling the equipment to be on site as quickly as possible.

“JFD is pleased to have successfully completed the air transportation trials of the first Indian Navy DSRV System, working in close partnership with the Indian Navy Submarine Rescue Team West and the Indian Air Force to achieve this key milestone in the journey to a fully comprehensive submarine rescue capability,” Giovanni Corbetta, JFD managing director, commented. “The trials have proven the compatibility of the newly inducted Submarine Rescue System with the Indian Air Force IL-76 Transporters, and the rapid response and deployment capability this provides in support of disabled submarine rescue operations at sea.”

The air transportation trials follow the sea trials of the DSRV for the first of the two third generation systems being delivered to the Indian Navy.

Under the £193m contract, JFD is delivering two complete third-generation submarine rescue systems, including launch and recovery systems (LARS) equipment, Transfer Under Pressure (TUP) systems, logistics and support equipment, and a 25-year all-inclusive annual maintenance contract.