Vinetra: India's Advanced Submarine Escape Training Facility

Vinetra: The New Submarine Escape Training Facility

• Commissioned on September 13, 2024, at INS Satavahana, Visakhapatnam
• Inaugurated by Vice Admiral Rajesh Pendharkar, Flag Officer Commanding-in-Chief, Eastern Naval Command
• Named "Vinetra," meaning "Trainer" in Sanskrit
• Designed to enhance escape capabilities for crew of Kalvari-class submarines
• Features a five-meter escape tower integrated with a diving basin
• Provides both basic and refresher training for submarine crews
• Developed indigenously, aligning with the 'Aatmanirbhar Bharat' initiative
• Constructed by M/s L&T Defence as a turnkey project

Significance and Impact of Vinetra

• Reinforces operational readiness and safety protocols for the Indian Navy
• Builds confidence among submariners for handling underwater emergencies
• Enhances overall submarine crew training infrastructure
• Supports India's focus on self-reliance in defence capabilities
• Ensures proficiency in escape procedures for Kalvari-class submarine crews
• Marks a significant step in improving submarine safety measures
• Demonstrates India's commitment to advanced naval training facilities

Kalvari-Class Submarines and Project 75

• Kalvari-class submarines are diesel-electric attack submarines
• Based on the French Scorpène-class design
• Part of Project 75 of the Indian Navy
• Six submarines planned under a $3.75 billion deal with France (2005)
• Technology transfer from Naval Group (formerly DCNS)
• Construction by Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders Limited (MDL) in Mumbai
• Capabilities include anti-ship warfare, anti-submarine warfare, and intelligence gathering
• Five submarines already inducted: INS Kalvari, Khanderi, Karanj, Vela, and Vagir
• Sixth submarine, INS Vaghsheer, currently undergoing sea trials