New Delhi

The Indian Navy is reportedly mulling to acquire domestically manufactured swimmer delivery vehicles, also known as underwater chariots and midget submarines, in a bid to modernise and bolster the capabilities of its Marine Commandos (MARCOS)—a special force of the Navy modelled on the US Navy Seals.

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The Indian Express newspaper, quoting defence sources, said these chariots will be powered by lithium-ion batteries. It will be able to carry a crew of six members.

It is understood that they have currently ordered prototypes, and after proper testing, they will acquire a few dozen.

According to reports, the navy is in consultation with the manufacturers to design a prototype as per their expectations.

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These so-called chariots are used by almost all advanced navies in the world. These are self-propelled vehicles which can be launched from ships or submarines, depending on their size and the roles they are to perform.

Used by advanced navies 

Notably, a similar type of manned human torpedoes was used during World War II.

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These are deployed for a range of missions, including shallow-water surveillance, attacking the adversary’s coastal installations, and even their ships in harbour.

The chariots aid the marine commands in accessing the adversary’s harbour in close proximity, a feat otherwise difficult for submarines due to shallow waters. Also, it helps in the transportation of weapons and equipment to areas of operations.

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A report by Forbes had earlier mentioned that the Pakistan Navy has a small submarine – a fraction of the size of a regular submarine – which is in use by the SSG (N), its Special Service Group.

Indians using Italian-made chariots 

It is unclear what type of swimmer delivery vehicles the Indian Navy uses, but the Indian Express quoting sources reported that the Indian forces used Italian-made chariots for several years now.

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Around 2012, the Ministry of Defence had asked Hindustan Shipyard Limited to build two of these submarines.

(With inputs from agencies)