INS Vagsheer is the last of six Scorpene class submarines. The third of the six 'Scorpene' class submarines, INS Khanderi, was launched in January of 2017. The Navy's fourth submarine, INS vagir, is currently undergoing sea tests and will be joining the fleet in a year to two years after the trials have ended.
DCNS, a French naval defense company, was chosen to design and construct the Scorpene. DCNS is a historic partner of Norway in Hauk Patrol Boats. DCNS is currently working on a second-generation hydrogen cell AIP module to be used in future Scorpene models.
The 'Scorpene' class submarines are designed to perform anti-surface and anti-submarine warfare. They are capable of launching precision guided weapons. It can also carry out intelligence gathering missions. Scorpene Submarines rank among the top-of-the-line conventional attack submarines in the world. They can operate in all theaters. They can be used for antisubmarine warfare as well mine laying and surveillance. These submarines can also be equipped with superior stealth features, which can decrease detection ranges for their sensors. The submarine's high-resolution sonar can detect and identify mines and obstacles in the sea.
The Scorpene submarine can launch precision guided weapons, including antiship and anti-surface rockets. The integrated navigation systems combine data from both global positioning system (GPS), and log data to create a single, comprehensive navigation system. The submarine can reach speed of 12 knots when the surface is reached and 20 at depth.
Depending on the speed of the submarine, the Scorpene can run for upto 21 days at sea. This submarine can be fitted with a MESMA system, which is a version of the Naval Group nuclear propulsion system. The MESMA system requires a hull of 8.3 metres. It generates heat from oxygen, ethanol, and requires a hull section measuring 8.3 metres. The system can be purchased for between $50-60 millions. The system can be equipped with an integrated platforms management system which gives central control over the machinery. The submarine can travel as far as 6,500 nautical miles.
The crew of the submarine is 31 with a standard watch group of nine. All areas of operation are fully air-conditioned with rescue systems. Special operations crews can also use six bunks that fold down to the submarine. The submarine measures 5.8m deep and can travel at up to 11 knots above the surface.
The 'Scorpene,' sub-sea vessel is designed to operate in all theatres including anti-surface war, mine laying, surveillance, intelligence gathering, and area surveillance. The submarine is capable of operating in all conditions. This gives it increased operational flexibility. Scorpene's submarine can operate on all seas and in all waters. The submarine is easily adaptable to specific customer requirements. Scorpene's submarine can be built to hold more fuel or ammunition. You can also fit an Air Independent Propulsion module to increase its endurance.
The Scorpene submarine can operate in any weather conditions and has advanced technology that increases its stealth. The submarine's hull is designed to allow for low-radiated noise, which reduces the risk of detection by hostile sensors.