(MENAFN- NewsBytes)
Modi commissions submarine INS Kalvari, dedicates it to the nation
14 Dec 2017
PM Narendra Modi has commissioned INS Kalvari, the first of six French-designed Scorpene-class diesel-electric attack submarines, into the Indian Navy in Mumbai.
He said the submarine, which was constructed by Mazgaon Docks Limited (MDL) in Mumbai "is a fine example of the fast-growing strategic partnership between India and France."
The state-of-the-art stealthy submarine gives a much-needed boost to the Navy's dwindling submarine arm.
Modi hails Navy's role in securing India's maritime boundaries
Statement
"I thank all those workers associated with INS Kalvari," said Modi.
"Today is a day of pride. I would like to congratulate all the citizens of this country on this historic occasion."
He said the 21st century is "Asia's century" and that the continent's development will go through India.
He hailed the Navy's role in fighting terrorism, piracy, smuggling and other illegal activities.
INS Kalvari named after India's first-ever commissioned submarine
History
The state-of-the-art INS Kalavari, means Tiger Shark, comes with superior stealth and the ability to launch attacks on enemy ships and submarines using precision torpedoes and anti-ship missiles.
It derives its name from India's first submarine, the INS Kalvari, a Soviet Foxtrot-class vessel commissioned by the Navy on December 8, 1967.
Recently, the Indian Navy's submarine arm celebrated its golden jubilee.
Scorpene-class submarines to boost India's dwindling submarine arm
Explained
The INS Khanderi, the second Scorpene-class submarine, is undergoing sea trials and will be inducted soon. MDL will deliver the rest to the Navy by 2020.
Currently, the Navy has just 15 submarines, including the four of the German HDW Shishumar-class, nine of the Russian Kilo-class, one nuclear-powered Russian Akula-class attack submarine and the indigenous nuclear-powered INS Arihant ballistic missile submarine.
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