India has recently signed an agreement with Russia to procure anti-ship cruise missiles, aimed at strengthening the Indian Navy’s submarine fleet. However, the defence ministry has not disclosed details regarding the missile system’s name, quantity, or cost.
According to sources within the defence establishment, the deal includes the acquisition of the Klub-S missile system, a part of the Kalibr missile family, specifically designed for submarines.
Reports indicate that India intends to purchase 20 Klub-S missiles for approximately USD 200 million.
While the Russian Navy currently operates the Klub-S system, the Indian Navy also utilizes these missiles. This additional procurement is expected to bolster its diesel-electric submarine fleet, which comprises six Russian-origin Kilo-class, also known as Sindhughosh-class, submarines.
Everything You Need to Know About the Klub-S Anti-Ship Cruise Missile System
The Klub-S missiles feature a 400-kg warhead payload and can engage surface ships, submarines, and land targets within a range of 300 kilometers. The system comprises a fire control unit, vertical launcher modules (VLU), and ammunition. It is designed to adapt its altitude and trajectory to evade threats and navigate around obstacles.
Furthermore, the Klub-S missile remains effective even in hostile environments with intense enemy fire and advanced electronic countermeasures.
“Once installed on a submarine, the Klub-S will serve as an irrefutable argument in containing a potential enemy,” the manufacturer of the Klub-S anti-ship cruise missile system asserts.
Overview of Sindhughosh-Class Submarines
Submarine fleets are crucial for underwater warfare and national strategic defense. The Indian Navy operates various submarine classes, including the Kalvari, Sindhughosh, and Shishumar classes.
The Sindhughosh class, also known as the Kilo class, comprises diesel-electric submarines developed through a collaboration between Russia and India. Designed for long-range patrols, these submarines are equipped with torpedoes and missiles.
The fleet includes INS Sindhughosh, INS Sindhudhvaj, INS Sindhuraj, INS Sindhuvir, INS Sindhuratna, INS Sindhukesari, INS Sindhukirti, INS Sindhuvijay, INS Sindhurakshak, and INS Sindhushastra. However, INS Sindhudhvaj, INS Sindhurakshak, and INS Sindhuvir have been decommissioned, with two more submarines set to retire within the next 2-3 years.
Notably, New Delhi remains one of the world’s largest importers of Russian defense equipment, sourcing 67 percent of its military hardware from Russia.
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