Fifth Scorpène-class submarine Vagir commissioned into Indian Navy

Vagir was launched into water on November 12, 2020 and commenced sea trials on February 1, 2022

The fifth Scorpène-class conventional submarine,  Vagir, was delivered to the Navy was commissioned into the Indian Navy on January 23.

Vagir was launched into water on November 12, 2020 and commenced sea trials on February 1, 2022.

The commissioning of the submarine, built under the Project-75, will bolster the Navy’s combat capability at a time when China has been increasing its presence in the Indian Ocean region.

“The induction of Vagir is another step towards the Indian Navy, consolidating its position as a builder’s Navy, as also reflects MDL’s capabilities as a premier ship and submarine building yard,” a press release by the Ministry of Defence said.

Navy Chief Admiral R Hari Kumar was present at the induction ceremony as the Chief Guest.

India has been working on bolstering its maritime capability with a focus on the Indian Ocean in the backdrop of concerns over China’s growing forays into the region, considered the backyard of the Indian Navy.

The Project-75 includes indigenous construction of six submarines of Scorpene design.