In a significant step for the country’s ‘Make in India’ programme, Pipavav Defence and Offshore Engineering Company (PDOC) signed an agreement with JSC Ship Repairing Centre Zvyozdochka, Russia, for Medium Refits and Life Certification of 877 EKM Submarines in India.
A statement from PDOC said it proposed to execute the programme under a joint venture (JV) with 51 per cent stake, which is consistent with the Defence Ministry regulations.
While it marks the first instance of the refit of submarines being considered for the private sector in India, the indicative value of work planned to be undertaken by the proposed JV is around Rs.11,000 crore.
Under the agreement, Zvyozdochka will provide complete technical assistance and support to the JV, including for the enhancement of infrastructure at the PDOC facilities, training of engineers, and the like. PDOC technicians will also be closely associated with the first refit to be carried out in Russia.
According to PDOC, the skills and experience developed by the JV will position it favourably for undertaking similar work for large submarine forces of similar class deployed by countries such as Algeria, Vietnam and Iran, with potential additional revenues of about Rs.20,000 crore.
“Refit and modernisation of submarines is an ongoing need for our Blue Water Navy,” a PDOC spokesperson said. “PDOC and Zvyzdochka are deeply committed to playing an enabling role towards enhancing Naval preparedness, which is vital for our national security.”
Zvyozdochka is the premier ship repairing centre in Russia. It has undertaken upgradation/refurbishment of more than 120 submarines and 90 warships.
Published - July 21, 2015 11:27 pm IST
