(a) whether most of the Submarines purchased by India lack rescue facilities;
(b) if so, the steps proposed to be taken to remove those shortcomings taking into account the Russian Submarine disaster;
(c) whether India has purchased some highly sophisticated Submarines from abroad; and
(d) if so, the details thereof?
MINISTER OF DEFENCE (SHRI GEORGE
FERNANDES)
(a) & (b): All Indian Navy submarines have the
capability to allow escape of crew from about a depth of
120 meters, using escape suits. Submarines have rescue
hatches, which are standard fit and are designed to mate
with Deep Submergence Rescue Vessels (DSRVs)/diving bells.
Indian Navy does not have a DSRV. Induction of DSRV
together with its associated infrastructure is being
progressed.
(c) & (d): Indian Navy has recently procured a
submarine from Russia. It will not be in the interest of
national security to divulge further details.