India is preparing to bolster its submarine fleet under the proposed “Project 75 Additional” initiative, which calls for three additional Scorpene-class submarines aimed at accelerating delivery timelines, increasing indigenous content, and strengthening the domestic defense industry. Following the reported conclusion of commercial talks between Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders Limited (MDL) and the government in early 2025, a final approval is expected by late March 2026, paving the way for a rapid construction phase.
One of the defining features of the program is its expedited execution. Naval Group’s Eric Balufin noted that, unlike entirely new submarine projects, these vessels can move directly into production due to the existing infrastructure, supply chain, and design maturity established during the original Project 75 build. This enables India to avoid delays typical of new programs and capitalize on MDL’s already operational production line.
Estimated at ₹36,000 crore, the deal goes beyond fleet expansion by introducing enhanced capabilities. The new submarines are likely to be slightly larger and incorporate up to 60% indigenous components, reinforcing India’s self-reliance objectives and expanding local industrial participation.
A critical enhancement is the planned integration of DRDO’s Air Independent Propulsion (AIP) system, which significantly extends underwater endurance by reducing the need to surface. This improvement boosts stealth, survivability, and mission effectiveness in high-threat environments such as the Indian Ocean.
From an industrial perspective, the program could position India as a regional hub for maintenance and support of Scorpene-class submarines. With several Indo-Pacific nations operating or evaluating these platforms, India has the potential to become a key MRO center, enhancing both strategic influence and economic opportunities while deepening ties within global naval supply networks.
In strategic terms, the initiative acts as a bridge solution. As Project-75 India (P75I)—focused on next-generation stealth submarines in collaboration with foreign partners—remains in a prolonged evaluation phase, Project 75 Additional ensures continuity in naval capability, helping the Indian Navy sustain readiness and avoid operational shortfalls during the transition.
