TKMS and Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders (MDL) begin official contract negotiations for six state-of-the-art, German-designed submarines
The Indian submarine program is entering its next phase with TKMS and Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders (MDL) beginning their official contract negotiations with the Indian procurement authority for Project 75(I). This marks a critical milestone in India’s pursuit of domestic naval capability and international technology transfer.
As part of Project 75(I), six submarines developed in Germany are planned to be built in cooperation with Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders Limited (MDL). This initiative is expected to deepen strategic and industrial ties between India and Germany, highlighting both nations’ commitment to technological cooperation and maritime security.
Oliver Burkhard, CEO of TKMS, emphasizes: “I am convinced that India will develop into a global center for submarine technology and manufacturing. Our partnership with MDL is based on trust, innovation, and shared goals that go far beyond individual contracts. Together – with the support of both governments – we can enable India to deliver world-class submarines for its navy and for friendly fleets worldwide.“
For India, this step represents a significant advance in the development of its domestic naval capabilities. For Germany, it demonstrates its commitment to supporting one of Asia’s largest conventional submarine programs. This partnership is in alignment with India’s efforts to modernize its fleet, strengthen regional naval expansion, and advance the “Make in India” initiative through technology transfer and local manufacturing.
About Project 75(I)
Important milestones have already been reached in Project 75(I): MDL and TKMS completed all services for the Concept Design Agreement (CDA) by August 31, 2025.
In addition, TKMS submitted binding offers for engineering services, advanced TKMS submarine components – including AIP (Air Independent Propulsion) systems – and flexible combat system solutions.
In the wake of high-level delegation visits, TKMS, MDL, and government representatives now want to take Indian-German cooperation in the naval sector to a new level and fundamentally strengthen the Indian defense industry.
The start of contract negotiations in India is another positive sign for TKMS’s economic development. At the end of 2024, TKMS received an order for four additional submarines from Germany, while the recent signing of a contract for two more submarines from Singapore further strengthened its position in the international market. The order backlog (as of June 30, 2025) has thus increased to €18.5 billion.
