The delay in the delivery of French Scorpene submarines would adversely impact the underwater capability of the Indian Navy, Defence Minister A.K. Antony said Monday.
He told parliament that slippage in the delivery schedule is expected on account of some teething problems, absorption of technology and delays in augmentation of industrial infrastructure and procurement of MDL (Mazgaon Docks Limited) purchased materials (MPM).
Delay in scheduled delivery of submarines is likely to have an impact on the envisaged submarine force levels, he said.
Construction of the first, second and third submarine commenced in December 2006, December 2007 and August 2008, respectively.
India inked a $3.5 billion deal with France in 2006 for six Scorpene submarines. The first of these submarines is to be delivered by 2011 while the remaining five will be built at the state-owned Mazgaon Docks Limited in Mumbai.
Under a 20-year submarine perspective plan, Indian Navy intends to acquire 24 submarines by the year 2020.