The current visit of German Defence Minister Boris Pistorius has seen an MOU signed by TKMS with Indian shipyard Mazagon Docks, announced June 7, 2023. This is aimed at securing local manufacture in Mumbai of six AIP equipped Type 214s or maybe variant 218s.
This
does not mean India’s selection of TKMS designed subs under Project-75(I)is a
done deal. Another strong competitor is South Korea’s DSME which may be offering KSS-IIIs. KSS-IIIs feature at least 6 VLS and largely
South Korean developed AIP. As KSS-IIIs are much larger designs than 214s/218s
they are likely to cost India much more. But India may appreciate the value of
KSS-III’s VLS as useful launch modes for K-15 nuclear missiles(or
newer ballistic or hypersonic missiles) mainly against Pakistan.
There may be considerable
delay until a 75(I) winner is announced. India does not have a reputation of
being a rapid, decisive, selector of complex weapon systems. Also TKMS and DSME
might continue to see onerous 75(I) contractual conditions covering
such things as liability and tech transfer, as obstacles that may demand years
of further bargaining.