Indian Navy launches third Scorpene class submarine

Mumbai Jan 31: In yet another boost to Indian Navy the third Scorpene-class submarine Karanj was launched at Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders Limited (MDL) in Mumbai on Wednesday. Karanj is the third of the six Scorpene-class submarines which are constructed by MDL under the Project 75 programme.

Defence officials have said that "The Scorpene submarines are a primary modernization requirement of the Indian Navy." MDL on Tuesday has said that "The third Scorpene class submarine Karanj will be launched at Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders Limited on January 31, 2018." Navy Chief Admiral Sunil Lanba will be the chief guest on the occasion."

"The submarines have the ability to launch a crippling attack on the enemy using precision-guided weapons.The attack can be launched with both torpedoes and tube launched anti-ship missiles, whilst underwater or on the surface," said MDL.



The Scorpene deal for India was signed in October 2005 and the first submarine was to be delivered by 2012, but due to inordinate delays and teething problems, it could not happen.