UPI, New Delhi: The head of India's navy said Wednesday a deal to acquire a French submarine was crucial to fill a possible void in underwater strike capability.
Adm. Arun Prakash said the $1.5 million deal to buy the Scorpene submarine from France, a decision made by the previous government, was unlikely to be reviewed by the present government. He acknowledged, however, certain clarifications had been sought from DCN International, the firm that built the Scorpene.
“I am sure government will look favorably at it,” he said.
The Indian navy considers the deal vital because it wants to launch a dedicated satellite to network its fleet, filling a “serious void” in the future. He also said attempts were being made to stem declining force levels, adding 19 warships were in various stages of construction across the country.
Under the deal, India will build six Scorpene killer class submarines in Bombay. The first submarine is expected to be unveiled 2011. The others will be ready by 2016.
