DRDO Delivers Naval Flare Systems for Kalvari-Class Submarines to Indian Navy.

Introduction

The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) has successfully delivered Naval Flare Systems to the Indian Navy. These systems are designed for the Kalvari-Class submarines, significantly enhancing their survivability and underwater defense capabilities. This development is another milestone in India’s journey towards Atmanirbhar Bharat (self-reliance in defense manufacturing).

What are Kalvari-Class Submarines?

• The Kalvari-Class belongs to the Scorpene-class submarines, built under Project 75 in collaboration with France’s Naval Group.
• These are diesel-electric attack submarines, known for stealth, precision strike, and long endurance.
• The class includes INS Kalvari, INS Khanderi, INS Karanj, INS Vela, and INS Vagir, with another submarine under construction.
• They are equipped with torpedoes, missiles, and advanced sonar systems.

About Naval Flare Systems

• Naval flares are countermeasure systems used to mislead and neutralize incoming enemy torpedoes.
• They act as decoys, diverting the path of guided weapons away from the submarine.
• DRDO’s indigenous design ensures the system is tailored to India’s submarine warfare requirements.
• The system integrates seamlessly with submarine combat management systems.

Significance of the Delivery

• Enhanced Survivability: Provides Kalvari-class submarines with an additional layer of defense.
• Indigenous Capability: Reflects India’s growing expertise in advanced naval systems.
• Strategic Edge: Strengthens India’s underwater warfare preparedness amid Indo-Pacific challenges.
• Cost Efficiency: Reduces dependency on foreign imports for critical defense equipment.
• Operational Flexibility: Increases confidence of submariners during high-risk missions.

Strategic Context

India faces increasing challenges in the Indian Ocean Region (IOR) due to rising Chinese submarine presence and regional maritime threats. Submarine warfare plays a crucial role in sea denial and deterrence strategies. With the delivery of Naval Flare Systems, India ensures its Kalvari-Class fleet remains combat-ready and technologically superior.

Relevance for UPSC Aspirants

• Prelims: Questions may arise on Project 75, Kalvari-Class submarines, DRDO naval systems.
• Mains (GS III): Relevant in Indigenization of defense technology, maritime security, and India’s naval modernization.
• Essay Paper: Useful under themes like Self-reliance in Defense or Security in the Indo-Pacific.

Practice Questions

Prelims (MCQ)

1. Kalvari-Class submarines are:
   (a) Nuclear-powered attack submarines
   (b) Diesel-electric attack submarines
   (c) Aircraft carriers under Project 75
   (d) Ballistic missile submarines

Answer: (b) Diesel-electric attack submarines

Mains (GS Paper III)

Q. Discuss the significance of DRDO’s Naval Flare Systems for enhancing India’s submarine warfare capabilities and its role in achieving self-reliance in defense technology. (150 words)