INS Karanj can attack through both torpedoes and tube launched anti-ship missiles, whilst underwater or on surface
INS Karanj comes with superior stealth features such as advanced acoustic silencing techniques, hydro-dynamically optimized shape, low radiated noise levels, and the ability to launch a crippling attack on the enemy using precision-guided weapons
Indian Navy on Wednesday launched INS Karanj, its third Scorpene-class submarine. The submarine is built using a state-of-the-art technology. Karanj comes with superior stealth features such as advanced acoustic silencing techniques, hydro-dynamically optimized shape, low radiated noise levels, and the ability to launch a crippling attack on the enemy using precision-guided weapons. The Scorpene can attack through both torpedoes and tube launched anti-ship missiles, whilst underwater or on surface. “The stealth of this potent platform is enhanced by the special attention given to various signatures. These stealth features give it an invulnerability, unmatched by most submarines,” a government press release said on Wednesday.
Karanj is capable of undertaking multifarious types of missions i.e Anti-Surface warfare, Anti-Submarine warfare, intelligence gathering, mine laying, area surveillance etc. Designed with precision, the submarine can operate in all theatres, with means provide to ensure interoperability with other components of a Naval Task Force. It is a potent platform, marking a generational shift in submarine operations.
INS Kalvari, the first Scorpene-class submarine was commissioned into the Indian Navy, was launched in India on 14 December 2017. While Khanderi, the second Scorpene-class submarine was launched in January 2017, and is currently undergoing the rigorous phase of sea trials and is also scheduled to be delivered shortly, a government press release said.
After the launch, Karanj towed to Mumbai Port Trust, for separation from the pontoon. Karanj will now undergo rigorous trials and tests, both in harbour and at sea before it is commissioned into the Navy.
Constructed by Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders Limited for the Indian Navy, the Submarine was launched by Reena Lanba, President Navy Wives Welfare Association after the recitation of Sanskrit shlokas from the Atharva Veda and traditional ceremonies associated with the launch of naval platforms. She also named this submarine as ‘Karanj’.
Admiral Sunil Lanba, Chief of the Naval Staff was present as the chief guest on the occasion. “It (submarine) will undergo rigorous tests for the next one year before it is commissioned,” Admiral Lanba said on the occasion. Total six submarines are going to be built at the MDL.At the time of launch of Kalvari, Modi had said its induction was a big step in the country’s defence preparedness. While Defence Minister Nirmala Sitharaman had then said that submarine building is a sophisticated and exacting craft which very few countries possess in their industrial capacity.