Navy's Submarine Vaghsheer begins sea trials, to be commissioned next year
The Indian Navy's sixth and final Kalvari class submarine, Vaghsheer, has begun its sea trials and is expected to be commissioned into the force by early next year.
The commissioning of the submarine, built under Project-75, is set to enhance the Navy's combat capability at a time when China has been increasing its presence in the Indian Ocean region.
"The sixth submarine of Project-75 commenced her sea trials on May 18," the Navy said.
Vaghsheer is scheduled for delivery to the Indian Navy in early 2024 after completion of the sea trials.
The submarine was launched in April last year from the Kanhoji Angre Wet Basin of the Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders Limited (MDL).
India has been focusing on bolstering its maritime capability with a focus on the Indian Ocean in the backdrop of concerns over China's growing forays into the region, considered the backyard of the Indian Navy.
The Project-75 includes indigenous construction of six submarines.
The submarines are being constructed at t