India is set to reportedly launch the bidding process for six submarines for the Navy, under a project worth Rs 550bn ($7.5bn).
Media reports have stated that the process is expected to commence in October, citing government officials.
The submarines will be constructed in the country in partnership with foreign defence majors to produce military platforms in an effort reduce the dependence on imports.
PTI reported that the specifications and other important requirements to issue the request for proposal (RFP) is completed by different defence ministry and Indian Navy teams.
This project, P-75 I, is said to be the biggest ‘Make in India’ initiatives in the country.
The Defence Ministry of India has shortlisted two shipyards in India, L&T group and Mazagaon Docks and five foreign companies which include, ThyssenKrupp Marine Systems, Navantia and Naval Group are foreign partners.
The Indian Navy has planned to buy 24 new submarines which include six nuclear attack submarines in a bid to increase its fighting capability underwater. Its fleet includes two nuclear submarines and 15 conventional submarines.
This is said to be in response to the increased presence of the Chinese Navy in the Indian Ocean region.
Last week, India reportedly planned to upgrade the infrastructure at its two island territories, Andaman and Nicobar and Lakshadweep.
The Chinese Navy has increased its presence in the region with ports in Myanmar, Pakistan and Iran.
In a separate development, Indian Navy has deployed its frontline warship to the South China Sea.
Last month, the Indian Navy expanded its deployment of frontline warships and submarines in the Indian Ocean Region (IOR).
India had deployed its ships in the IOR amid border clashes with China in the Galwan Valley in June that led to the death of 20 Indian Army personnel.
