Indigenous AIP system for Indian Navy’s diesel-electric submarines achieves key milestone with inauguration of Setting to Work Phase-2 Activity

Key Highlights:

• The indigenous Air Independent Propulsion (AIP) system for the Indian Navy's diesel-electric submarines achieved a key milestone.
• The 'Setting to Work Phase (STW)-2' activity of the AIP system Energy Module was inaugurated.
• The system was developed by the Naval Materials Research Laboratory (NMRL), DRDO.
• The inauguration took place on October 24, 2026, at Larsen and Toubro’s AM Naik Heavy Engineering Complex in Hazira, Gujarat.
• The AIP system enhances the underwater endurance of submarines by reducing dependence on atmospheric oxygen.
• The AIP Energy Module will be integrated onto a Kalvari-class Submarine by Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders Limited in early 2027.

Detailed Insights:

• This development marks a significant step towards bolstering the Indian Navy's indigenous underwater operational capabilities.
• The DRDO and industry partners were commended for their scientific perseverance and industrial cooperation in the AIP program.
• The Indian Navy has provided crucial cooperation throughout the program, including testing and validation at various stages.
• The next phase involves energizing and rigorously testing the AIP Energy Module according to Indian Navy protocols.
• The program emphasizes maintaining stringent safety standards required for hydrogen and fuel cell systems.

Key Concepts Involved:

• Air Independent Propulsion (AIP): Technology enabling non-nuclear submarines to operate submerged for extended periods without surfacing for air.
• Naval Materials Research Laboratory (NMRL): A DRDO laboratory specializing in materials science and technology for naval applications.
• Kalvari-class Submarine: A class of diesel-electric attack submarines of the Indian Navy, based on the French Scorpène design.