Scorpene row won't affect building submarines with foreign support: Navy chief Sunil Lanba

MUMBAI: The Scorpene data leak controversy won't affect the ambitious project of building submarines in the Indian dockyards with the help of foreign shipyards, Navy chief Admiral Sunil Lanba said today.

He was speaking to reporters after the launch of new warship Mormugao from Mumbai-based Mazagaon Dock Shipbuilders Ltd.

Under Project 75 I, Indian and foreign shipyards are supposed to construct submarines in Indian dockyards. The project for building six submarines is estimated to be worth $6 billion.

"Defence ministry has decided that it (Project 75 I) is to be part of a strategic partnership, where you have an overseas technology partner. A committee formed last year has identified which Indian shipyards can participate in the building and once the ministry decides on the state partnership model, project 75 I model would move forward," he said.