India’s maritime strength took centre stage on Sunday as President Droupadi Murmu undertook a rare submarine sortie aboard INS Vaghsheer, the Indian Navy’s latest indigenously built frontline submarine. The high-profile visit highlighted India’s growing defence self-reliance and the strategic importance of underwater warfare in safeguarding national interests.
The sortie took place on the Western seaboard from the Karwar naval base in Karnataka. President Murmu is only the second President of India to experience a submarine sortie, after former President APJ Abdul Kalam in 2006.
President Murmu Submarine Sortie: What Happened?
President Murmu boarded the Kalvari-class submarine INS Vaghsheer and undertook a dived operational sortie. Wearing a naval uniform, she interacted with officers and sailors and observed the submarine’s functioning closely.
“President Droupadi Murmu undertook a dive sortie on the Western Seaboard onboard INS Vaghsheer,” the President’s Secretariat said. She was accompanied by Chief of Naval Staff Admiral Dinesh K Tripathi during the mission.
Why INS Vaghsheer Is Important for India?
INS Vaghsheer is the sixth and final submarine under the Project-75 Scorpene programme. It was commissioned into the Indian Navy in January and is among the most advanced diesel-electric submarines in the world.
The submarine is designed for multiple roles, including:
- Anti-surface warfare
- Anti-submarine warfare
- Intelligence gathering
- Area surveillance
- Special operations
It is equipped with wire-guided torpedoes, anti-ship missiles, and advanced sonar systems. Its modular design also allows future upgrades, including Air Independent Propulsion technology.
President Praises Navy’s Professional Excellence
During her interaction with the crew, President Murmu praised their commitment and service. “She said that this indigenous submarine is a shining example of the Indian Navy’s professional excellence, combat preparedness and unwavering commitment to national security,” the Secretariat said.
She was also briefed on the role of submarines in India’s maritime strategy and their contribution to protecting national interests in the Indian Ocean region.
Strategic Role of Karwar Naval Base
The sortie underlined the importance of the Karwar naval base, which the Indian Navy is developing as a key strategic hub. The base supports India’s long-term security goals and enhances operational reach across the Indian Ocean. Naval officials view Karwar as central to strengthening India’s submarine and surface fleet deployment.
President Murmu’s Growing Defence Engagements
President Murmu has consistently shown hands-on engagement with the armed forces. In October, she flew a Rafale fighter jet from Ambala Air Force Station, becoming the first Indian President to fly two different fighter aircraft. Earlier, she had undertaken a sortie in a Sukhoi-30 MKI from Tezpur in Assam in April 2023.
Why This Matters?
The President’s submarine sortie sends a strong message about India’s focus on indigenous defence capability, maritime security, and military preparedness. It also reflects the growing confidence of the armed forces in home-built platforms at a time of evolving regional security challenges. As India strengthens its underwater fleet, INS Vaghsheer stands as a symbol of technological advancement and strategic resolve.
