President Murmu Makes History with Submarine Voyage in Karnataka
Historic Submarine Voyage by President Murmu
President Droupadi Murmu, the Supreme Commander of India's armed forces, has etched her name in history by becoming only the second president to embark on a submarine journey in India. This significant event took place at the naval base in Karwar, Karnataka, where she boarded the INS Vaghsheer, an indigenous Kalvari-class submarine of the Indian Navy. With this voyage, she follows in the footsteps of Dr. A.P.J. Abdul Kalam, who undertook a similar journey in February 2006 from Visakhapatnam into the Bay of Bengal. During this event, Chief of Naval Staff Admiral Dinesh K. Tripathi was also present alongside the President.
Significance of the Voyage
President Murmu's journey holds special significance as she donned the naval uniform while aboard the submarine. The INS Vaghsheer is the sixth and final submarine of the P75 Scorpene project, which was inducted into the navy in January. Earlier, on October 29, she flew in a Rafale fighter jet from Ambala Air Force Station, piloted by Squadron Leader Shivangi Singh.
Technical Features of INS Vaghsheer
The submarine used for this voyage, INS Vaghsheer, is a diesel-electric Scorpene-class vessel equipped with advanced navigation and tracking systems. Known as a 'silent killer,' it can remain submerged for up to 50 days and dive to depths of 350 feet. The submarine is armed with six torpedo tubes capable of launching 18 torpedoes or SM39 Exocet missiles, and it can also deploy 30 mines in the ocean. It features four MTU diesel engines and 660 battery cells, achieving a surface speed of 20 km/h and an underwater speed of approximately 37 km/h. This submarine represents the culmination of the Project 75 initiative.
A Symbol of Vigilance
Earlier in October, President Murmu also flew in the Rafale fighter jet, showcasing her engagement with the armed forces. Her visits to meet with military personnel and assess their readiness symbolize India's commitment to national security.