India and Germany are preparing to intensify negotiations on a proposed $8 billion submarine program aimed at building six German-designed conventional submarines for the Indian Navy.
The discussions are timely, as the Indian Navy continues to operate an aging conventional fleet of 16 submarines, 10 of which have been in service for more than three decades.
At the same time, India is advancing its nuclear deterrence capabilities, with its fourth Arihant-class ballistic missile submarine expected to be commissioned around 2027.
The proposed acquisition involves Type 214 diesel-electric submarines featuring air-independent propulsion, a key capability sought by India to significantly enhance underwater endurance.
The initiative is structured around a partnership between ThyssenKrupp Marine Systems and Mazgaon Dock Shipbuilders Limited, under which the submarines would be constructed domestically in India.
Regulatory approvals secured last year allow German firms to provide design support, engineering assistance, and technical consultancy, while MDL would oversee construction and delivery.
According to Indian officials, the propulsion systems under consideration could enable the submarines to remain submerged for approximately six days.
Although negotiations are progressing, sources indicated that a submarine contract is unlikely to be finalized during Merz’s current visit.
Even so, the talks are expected to emphasize wider defense cooperation, particularly in light of Germany’s recent relaxation of export controls, which saw approximately 110 defense items removed from its restricted list.
The German official’s schedule includes delegation-level discussions in Gandhinagar, visits to GIFT City and Bengaluru, and cultural events in Ahmedabad, such as the International Kite Festival and a visit to Sabarmati Ashram.
