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Khanderi: 2nd Scorpene class submarine launched today in Mumbai

On Thursday, the second Scorpene class submarine – “Khanderi” launched at the Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders Limited(MDL). The Khanderi submarine has superior stealth and the ability to launch a crippling attack with torpedoes as well as tube-launched anti-ship missiles whilst underwater or on surface.

Subash Bhamre who is Union Minister of State for Defence, presided over the function to initiate the launch of Khanderi (Yard 11876). The Khanderi submarine was launched by Bina Bhamre, the wife of Union minister.

Admiral Sunil Lamba- the Chief of the Naval Staff was also present on the occasion of launch when the submarine was separated from the pontoon on which it was assembled.

The stealth features of the submarine give it an unmatched, invulnerability by many submarines. The attack can be launched with torpedoes, as well as tube-launched anti-ship missiles, whilst underwater or on surface.

It can undertake multifarious types of missions typically undertaken by any modern submarine such as area surveillance, mine laying, intelligence gathering, anti-submarine warfare, and anti-surface warfare.

A defense official said that Khanderi is the second of the six submarines being built at MDL in collaboration with M/s DCNS of France, as part of Project 75 of Indian Navy. The first one, Kalvari, is completing sea trials and will be commissioned shortly into the Indian Navy.

An MDL official said that Khanderi is named after the Island fort of Maratha forces, which played a vital role in ensuring their supremacy at sea in the late 17th century. Khanderi is also the name for Tiger Shark.

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