Will comply with India’s technology norms: German submarine maker

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New Delhi, July 10

German submarine manufacturer TKMS (Thyssenkrupp Marine Systems) on Wednesday said it was ready to comply with all transfer of technology requirements sought by India as part its submarine deal under Project-75I, estimated to cost upwards of Rs 43,000 crore.

The TKMS is a partner with state-owned Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders Ltd, Mumbai, to make submarines. The joint venture of the TKMS and MDL is one of the two JVs shortlisted for the project.

Khalil Rahman, CEO, TKMS India Pvt Ltd, said, “We are going to provide cutting edge technology that would include lithium-ion batteries and air independent propulsion (AIP).” The AIP allows a submarine to remain sub-merged underwater for longer periods. “Our AIP is the best in class,” he claimed.

The transfer of technology, which requires a deeper transfer of knowledge, is increasingly important. Thyssenkrupp Marine Systems has experience in different forms of both ToT and localisation of product. Different models have been implemented by the TKMS in Italy, Israel, South Korea, Brazil, the company said.

Rahman said Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders Ltd was the only shipyard uniquely experienced in submarine construction in India. The TKMS was initially not inclined to bid for P-75I due to its scope and complexity, but was later convinced by the German government to bid for it. The Ukraine war and change in Europe’s security outlook also contributed to the German government’s interest in expanding defence cooperation.

The company has contributed to indigenous design, autonomy in maintenance or manufacturing, development of an export industry, stronger bilateral cooperation and increased security.