With the Defence Ministry’s ambitious policy on Strategic Partnership (SP) model which intends to promote defence manufacturing nowhere in sight, the Navy has begun considering a range of alternative options to shore up its submarine levels.
The Navy’s plan to procure a new line of submarines under Project-75I hinges on the SP guidelines. SP model includes five-key areas to achieve domestic capability, which includes submarines and aircraft.
“We need those submarines badly because our force levels are being affected. In case the SP model doesn’t fall into place, for whatever reasons, we will have to look elsewhere,” Vice-Admiral D.M. Deshpande, Navy’s Controller of Warship Production and Acquisition, said on Tuesday. The policy, which is part of the Defence Procurement Procedure (DPP) 2016, would have detail guidelines on how major Indian private sector companies can tie up with global Original Equipment Manufacturers.
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Repeated delays
The idea was mooted by former Defence Minister Manohar Parrikar about two years ago. However, it was repeatedly delayed after strong objections from various quarters to the proposed guidelines.
Now with the departure of Mr. Parrikar, and Arun Jaitley holding the additional charge, there are concerns in the Ministry and industry. “If the SP model happens, it will be good. If it does not happen, all options come to the fore” the Vice-Admiral said in response to questions at an event.
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