India’s submarine fleet faces a pressing challenge in operational capability, owing to a lackadaisical approach towards indigenous modernisation efforts. As Russian and German submarines approach retirement, the timely procurement of replacements remains inadequate, giving rise to significant strategic and security apprehensions. Ranjit Kumar underscores the urgency of acquiring or constructing new submarines, given that a substantial portion of the existing fleet has served for three decades. The Navy’s 30-year submarine-building blueprint, sanctioned in 1999, stipulates a minimum requirement of 24 submarines. However, due to persisting delays, a comprehensive reassessment of the plan has been necessitated. There is a mounting concern that by 2030, India may not possess a robust submarine fleet capable of matching China’s burgeoning capabilities.

Vice Admiral A.K. Chawla (Retd) highlights the pivotal role of stealth in contemporary submarines. Stealth empowers submarines to undertake covert operations over extended durations and fulfil diverse missions. Given the global investments in anti-submarine warfare capabilities, the significance of stealth technology escalates further in ensuring the survivability and effectiveness of submarines. This intricate domain encompasses a fusion of design attributes and specialised materials that collectively diminish enemy sensor detection, making it an indispensable facet of contemporary submarine warfare.

Recent reports indicate that Fujian, China’s first indigenously designed and built aircraft carrier, is all set to start sea trials in the near future. Fujian will be China’s first CATOBAR carrier and is fitted with electromagnetic catapults. Scheduled to be commissioned in 2025, it is 316 metres long, with a maximum beam of 76 metres and has a full load displacement of around 85,000 tons. Vice Admiral A.K. Chawla (Retd) talks about what this significant develop means for India and the Region in his article.

In October 2023, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh embarked on a 4-day diplomatic foray to Italy and France, with the explicit aim of fortifying defence ties. The bilateral rapport between Rome and New Delhi has experienced a commendable upswing, culminating in the reinvigoration of the defence partnership following a considerable hiatus. In Paris, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh held deliberations with his French counterpart Sebastien Lecornu, thereby further cementing the deep-seated strategic partnership between India and France. Additionally, he engaged in discussions with the CEOs of France’s premier defence conglomerates. For comprehensive coverage on these pivotal visits by the Defence Minister, refer to the detailed reports compiled by Ranjit Kumar.

Wish you all discerning readers happy reading!

Jai Hind!