Indian Navy to Strengthen Its Fleet with 6 German-Designed Submarines Built in India

Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders Limited (MDL) will partner with Germany’s ThyssenKrupp Marine Systems (TKMS) to build six next-generation submarines under Project-75(1). This initiative will boost “Make in India” and make India self-reliant in submarine manufacturing, enhancing the Navy’s strength and positioning the country as a global submarine hub.

The Indian Navy is set to enhance its maritime capabilities as Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders Limited (MDL) has initiated official contract negotiations with the Indian procurement authority for Project-75(1). This landmark program focuses on constructing six next-generation conventional submarines in India, based on German designs from ThyssenKrupp Marine Systems (TKMS).

What makes this project significant? All six submarines will be built domestically, integrating advanced German technology. This will empower India to eventually manufacture submarines independently. The project strengthens the “Make in India” initiative, boosts the Navy’s operational power, and could establish India as a global submarine manufacturing center.

Oliver Burkhard, CEO of TKMS, stated, “India’s rise as a maritime power has only just begun. We are confident that India will become a global hub for submarine construction. Our partnership will enable India to produce world-class submarines not only for its own Navy but also for friendly nations.”

Both India and Germany stand to gain from this collaboration. India will receive advanced submarine technology transfer, while Germany will secure a role in Asia’s largest submarine project. The partnership will also deepen defense cooperation between the two nations. MDL and Indian industries will acquire the expertise to develop submarines independently in the future.

TKMS is recognized as one of the world’s leading naval companies, operating three major shipyards in Kiel, Wismar, and Itajaí, Brazil. The company employs around 8,500 people and recently secured new submarine orders from Germany and Singapore. As of August 2025, TKMS has pending orders worth €18.5 billion.

Project-75(1) will equip the Indian Navy with modern submarines while paving the way for domestic self-reliance in submarine construction. The initiative represents a major milestone in India-Germany defense collaboration and will further strengthen India’s strategic position in the Indian Ocean region.