Karanj – The Third Scorpene Submarine For The Indian Navy Launched

Recently there was a launch of the third Scorpene class submarine, Karanj, at Mazagon Docks. Its manufacturers are Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders Ltd. It is for an exclusive use by Indian Navy. The launch was on January 31, 2018, by Reena Lanba. She is the President, Navy Wives Welfare Association. Before the launch, there was a recitation of Sanskrit shlokas. These shlokas were from Atharva Veda. In fact, this is a traditional ceremonial process with the launch of Indian naval platforms. Chief of Naval Staff, Admiral Sunil Lanba was the chief guest. This is, in fact, another Make In India feat by Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders Ltd (MDL). Soon after the launch, Karanj has a tight schedule of rigorous trials and tests. These trials and tests will happen in the harbor as well as at sea. And then Navy will acquire it post the successful completion of all tests and trials. Image Source: Business Line Karanj in the Hindi language means is a kind of herbal plant that has a great medicinal value. In the English language, it means a Basking Shark. Probably that fits well with the purpose of this vessel. The whole contract is for the construction of six numbers of Scorpene submarines. Also, there will be a complete transfer of technology during this process. Naval Group of France is MDL’s collaborator for this contract. With the launch of this third submarine, Navy is getting quite self-reliant in terms of manning, training, and certification mechanism. In fact, this is the second version of Karanj. The first one had a proud and successful serving period of 34 years. It was from 1969 to 2003. The earlier version of the submarine was also a participant in 1971 war against Pakistan. As a matter of fact, these Scorpene class submarines are a result of state-of-the-art-technology.

Karanj Is The Third In A Series of 6 Scorpene Submarines

Karanj and its siblings ensure excellent stealth features like advanced acoustic silencing capabilities, optimal hydrodynamic shape, minimal radiation of noise levels, and sharp and precise attack on the enemy. If we see, due to these unbeatable properties, the submarine is among the least vulnerable and thus most strong vessels in the world.