Germany, India to Step Up Talks for $8B Submarine Program
Germany and India are slated to push forward talks on a potential $8-billion program as Berlin and New Delhi explore cooperation on building six German-designed conventional submarines for the Indian Navy.
The discussions are expected to feature during German Chancellor Friedrich Merz’s two-day visit to New Delhi in mid-January, where defense ties will be a central agenda, according to local Indian media.
The visit comes as the Indian Navy faces an aging conventional submarine force, with 16 boats in service, including 10 more than three decades old.
Currently, India is advancing its nuclear submarine program, with its fourth Arihant-class ballistic missile submarine scheduled to enter service around 2027.
AIP Submarines Eyed
India’s plan includes Type 214 diesel-electric vessels equipped with air-independent propulsion or AIP, a capability the South Asian country has long sought to extend underwater endurance without surfacing.
The proposal centers on a partnership between ThyssenKrupp Marine Systems and state-owned Mazgaon Dock Shipbuilders Limited (MDL), which would see the submarines constructed locally in India.
The two companies already secured approval last year covering engineering support, design input, and technical consultancy from Germany, with MDL responsible for construction and delivery.
Indian officials said the engine technology to be fitted into the future fleet could allow the ships to remain submerged for about six days.
Contract Not Expected
Despite the momentum, sources said a submarine contract is unlikely to be finalized during Merz’s visit.
Officials still expect the talks to spotlight broader defense agreements, following Germany’s recent removal of about 110 of 130 defense items from its export control list, a move that has eased conditions for closer industrial cooperation with India.
The German official’s itinerary includes delegation-level talks in Gandhinagar, visits to GIFT City and Bengaluru, and cultural events in Ahmedabad, including the International Kite Festival and a stop at Sabarmati Ashram.