India's Indigenously Developed Takshak Heavy Torpedo Scheduled for Testing Aboard Kalvari-Class Submarines Before 2027
Summary
India's domestically engineered electric heavyweight torpedo, Takshak, developed by DRDO's Naval Science and Technological Laboratory, is on track to commence trials from Kalvari-class diesel-electric submarines by the end of 2026, beginning with dry and wet harbour tests before progressing to live explosive trials in 2027. The torpedo measures 6.4 metres in length, is powered by silver-oxide batteries, and incorporates advanced ring laser gyroscope-based inertial navigation combined with GPS and NavIC guidance systems, offering superior targeting precision compared to its predecessor, the Varunastra. Takshak is capable of engaging targets at ranges of up to 40 kilometres and operating at depths of up to 400 metres, functioning in both wire-guided and autonomous modes if the guidance wire is severed. The Defence Ministry has signed contracts worth approximately ₹2,867 crore, including agreements with Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders for AIP plug construction and with France's Naval Group for EHWT integration. The torpedo's "swim-out" launch mechanism significantly reduces acoustic signatures, enhancing submarine stealth capabilities while aligning with India's broader Aatmanirbhar Bharat self-reliance initiative.
Key Takeaways
- 1. **Strategic Self-Reliance:** Takshak represents a landmark achievement in India's indigenous defence manufacturing, reducing dependence on foreign torpedo systems and strengthening underwater warfare capabilities under the Aatmanirbhar Bharat framework.
- 2. **Superior Technical Specifications:** With NavIC/GPS/ring laser gyroscope guidance, 40km range, 400-metre operational depth, and fibre-optic wire guidance, Takshak significantly surpasses the capability benchmarks set by India's earlier Varunastra torpedo.
- 3. **Enhanced Submarine Stealth:** The "swim-out" launch system eliminates compressed air deployment noise, dramatically reducing sonar detectability and giving Indian submarines a critical tactical advantage in contested underwater environments.
- 4. **Significant Financial Commitment:** The ₹2,867 crore dual-contract framework — involving both domestic shipbuilder Mazagon Dock and France's Naval Group — signals India's serious long-term investment in modernising its submarine fleet's offensive and endurance capabilities.
- 5. **AIP Integration as Force Multiplier:** Parallel development of Air-Independent Propulsion technology for Kalvari-class submarines will substantially extend underwater endurance and stealth, transforming conventional diesel-electric boats into significantly more formidable strategic assets.