INS Vagir, the fifth Kalvari-class submarine, was commissioned into the Indian Navy

Six Scorpene class submarines are being built in India by Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders Limited (MDL) Mumbai in collaboration with M/s Naval Group, France.

INS Vagir will be a part of the Western Naval Command’s submarine fleet and will be another potent part of the Command’s armoury.

Vagir was launched on 12 Nov 2020 under Project 75 (P75) and was handed over to the Indian Navy on 20 Dec 22 after completion of sea trials. Vagir has the distinction of having the shortest construction time among all indigenously built submarines so far.

“Scorpene submarines are extremely powerful platforms, they have advanced stealth features and are armed with long-range guided torpedoes as well as anti-ship missiles. The ministry said, these submarines have state-of-the-art sonar suite and sensor suite allowing excellent operational capabilities.

Speaking on the occasion, the CNS said that INS Vagir will give a significant boost to the operational strength of the Indian Navy and will act as a potent deterrent to any adversary.

He also highlighted that Vagir is the third submarine to be commissioned into the Navy in a short span of 24 months. “This underlines the coming era of India’s shipbuilding industry and the maturity of our defense ecosystem. It is also a shining testimony to our shipyard’s expertise and experience in building complex and intricate platforms and helps reinforce the Indian Navy’s clear commitment and determination to become a completely ‘Atmanirbhar’ force by 2047. “

Congratulating the CMD and personnel of Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders Limited for their commendable efforts, the CNS said that MDL is a close and valued partner to the Indian Navy and has been at the forefront of the Navy’s transition from a ‘buyer’s navy’. For a ‘builder’s navy’.

The CNS commended the commissioning crew saying “It gives me the utmost confidence that each one of you will ‘do your duty and do it well’, and Vagir will serve the nation with pride and guided by the highest traditions of the Navy Will happen” .

“The sand shark represents ‘stealth and fearlessness’, two qualities that are synonymous with the ethos of a submarine. The submarine’s motto ‘Sahas Shaurya Samarpan’ embodies the core values ​​of courage, valor and dedication. The ministry said, The values ​​are reflected in the ability to carry out all operations at their peak efficiency and face the arduous task in order to emerge victorious under all circumstances.

The motto has been imbibed by men which inspires them to overcome adversity, to remain confident, fearless and brave even in the most trying circumstances so as to keep the edge ‘sharp and ready’.

The induction of Vagir is another step towards the Indian Navy consolidating its position as a builder’s navy, as well as a reflection of MDL’s capabilities as a leading ship and submarine building yard in the world . Project – 75 is also a significant milestone in the yard’s continued importance in the field of defense production.