Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders Limited (MDL) has declared the start of construction for the Air Independent Propulsion (AIP) plug, which is an essential feature for the P75 submarine project. This marks a major development in strengthening the underwater capabilities of the Indian Navy.
Important points:
1.Construction of the AIP plug at MDL facilities begins
2.₹1,990 crore contract inked with Ministry of Defence for AIP integration
3.Technology enables submarines to stay underwater for 2-3 weeks
4.Great improvement for P75 Scorpene-class submarines
The AIP system, designed by DRDO, will be fitted in currently operational P75 submarines, radically enhancing their stealth and endurance. This technology permits conventional submarines to stay underwater for long durations without surfacing to recharge batteries.
MDL's achievement on the AIP plug is part of India's larger strategy to modernize its naval fleet and address increasing regional challenges. The successful implementation of AIP technology will considerably boost the operational capabilities of the Indian Navy in the Indian Ocean region.
Sources: Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders Limited X post, PIB, March 18-19, 2025