MoD Inks Contract with MDL for AIP Plug for DRDO-AIP System

The ministry of defence signed two contracts worth approximately Rs 2,867 crore, for the construction of Air Independent Propulsion (AIP) Plug for DRDO-AIP system and its integration onboard Indian submarines, and the integration of electronic heavy weight torpedo (EHWT) onboard the Kalvari-Class submarines. Both contracts were signed in the presence of defence secretary Rajesh Kumar Singh in New Delhi on December 30.

The contract for construction of AIP Plug and its integration, valued at around Rs 1,990 crore, was signed with Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders Limited (MDL), while the contract for integration of EHWT, being developed by DRDO, was signed with Naval Group, France at an approximate cost of Rs 877 crore.

The AIP technology is being indigenously developed by DRDO. The project pertaining to construction of AIP-Plug and its integration will enhance the endurance of conventional submarines. It would generate employment of nearly three lakh man days. The integration of EHWT will be a collaborative effort by Indian Navy, DRDO and Naval Group of France. It would greatly augment the firepower capabilities of Kalvari Class submarines of the Indian Navy.