Indian Navy’s Urgent Need for Mine Countermeasures

Russia has introduced a mine countermeasures drone that could significantly enhance the Indian Navy’s (IN) capabilities in this critical area. This drone is designed to be integrated with mine defense ships, which Goa Shipyard Limited (GSL) is set to construct for the IN. The development comes at a crucial time, as the Indian Navy has faced a significant operational gap in mine countermeasures for over six years.

Operational Gap in Mine Countermeasures

The Indian Navy previously operated 12 Mine Countermeasures Vessels (MCMVs) but has not had a single operational MCMV or minesweeper since the decommissioning of the last Pondicherry-class vessel, INS Kozhikode, on April 13, 2019. The aging fleet, originally procured from the Soviet Union and later upgraded, was phased out due to bureaucratic delays and evolving technology. The absence of these vessels has left a critical void in the Navy’s mine countermeasure capabilities.

The phased retirement of the Pondicherry-class and Karwar-class minesweepers has raised concerns about the Navy’s readiness to address underwater threats. The lack of replacements has been attributed to failed negotiations and shifting procurement policies. As a result, the Indian Navy has been unable to effectively counter modern sea mines, which pose a significant risk to maritime operations.

Recognizing this gap, the Indian Navy has sought to integrate advanced technologies, including drones and clip-on mine countermeasure suites, into its operational framework. The urgency to address this operational gap has become increasingly apparent, especially as adversaries continue to enhance their naval capabilities.

Challenges in Procurement

The Indian Ministry of Defence (MoD) initiated the procurement process for replacement minesweepers in 2008, inviting bids from various international firms. South Korea’s Kangnam Corporation and Italy’s Intermarine were shortlisted, with Kangnam ultimately winning the contract in 2011. The agreement stipulated that Kangnam would build two MCMVs in South Korea, while GSL would construct the remaining six under license.

However, the procurement faced significant setbacks. In 2014, the MoD scrapped the deal after allegations surfaced regarding Kangnam’s use of agents to facilitate the contract. The procurement was rebooted in 2015, with GSL nominated to build 12 MCMVs indigenously. This time, the MoD also sought to procure Mine Counter Measure (MCM) Suites to be fitted on the vessels.

Despite GSL’s efforts to collaborate with foreign yards for technology transfer, negotiations with Kangnam faltered in 2017. The company failed to provide a performance guarantee, leading to the collapse of talks. In March 2018, the MoD issued a fresh expression of interest to multiple shipyards, including Kangnam, Intermarine, and Russian firms, in hopes of reviving the procurement process.

Russian Offer and Technological Advancements

In November 2019, during the 19th IRIGC-M&MT meeting in Moscow, Russia offered technology transfer for the local manufacture of its Project 12701 Alexandrit-E minesweepers. This offer aligns with the Indian Navy’s interest in integrating drones into its mine countermeasure operations. The Project 12701 vessels are designed to tackle modern sea mines using remote-controlled underwater vehicles, allowing for safe operations without entering danger zones.

These advanced minesweepers feature a unique hull made of monolithic fiberglass, which is lighter and more durable than traditional metal hulls. This design enhances the vessels’ resistance to corrosion and extends their operational lifespan. The integration of drones into the mine countermeasure suite is a significant step forward, as it allows for more efficient and safer mine detection and clearance.

In August 2023, the Indian Navy issued a fresh request for information (RFI) for 12 vessels equipped with both anti-submarine warfare (ASW) and mine countermeasures capabilities. The new vessels will incorporate state-of-the-art technologies, including underwater drones and remotely operated vehicles (ROVs), to enhance their operational effectiveness.

The Indian Navy’s gap in mine countermeasures capabilities must be addressed urgently. Even if the Ministry of Defence finalizes its options today, it could take several years to bridge this gap. The longer this void remains, the greater the risk of adversaries exploiting it. As the Navy seeks to modernize its fleet, the integration of advanced technologies, including the newly developed Russian underwater drone, will be crucial in enhancing its operational readiness and effectiveness in maritime security.

Source: Indian Navy: Without A Minesweeper For 6+ Years, Russia’s New MCM Drone Is Just What IN Needs! OPED

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