The Indian Navy is set to enhance these capabilities for special undersea operations by acquiring domestically manufactured swimmer delivery vehicles which are also called underwater chariots or midget submarines.
Features of Undersea Chariots
According to a report by an Indian media agency, these chariots are powered by lithium-ion batteries and can carry a total of six chariots are part and parcel of the Navy’s modernization efforts to bolster its MARCOS (Marine Commandoes). The dimensions of these delivery vehicles are designed to accommodate larger cylinders allowing divers to extend their underwater stay and augment overall operational range in shallow waters. Additionally, the size of the chariots enables the carriage of extra weapons for diverse operations.
A report by an international agency had earlier mentioned that the Pakistan Navy has a small submarine, a fraction of the size of a regular submarine is used by its SSG(N), its Special Service Groups. As of now, the Indian Navy has been utilizing Italian-made chariots for several years now.
Chariots and Midget submarines
The chariots are highly advanced underwater vehicles used by almost all navies across the globe. In simple terms, any submarine that weighs less than 150 tons is considered a midget submarine. These submarines are often operated by a crew of one or two. In some cases, these chariots are manned by a crew of six or nine members.
There is no space for accommodation. Normally the midget submarines function from the mother ship from where they are launched. In addition to launching the submarine the mother ship also ensures the recovery of small submarines and provides accommodation for the crew members. The chariots help navies conduct operations in shallow waters, carry out surveillance, and target the adversary coastal installations or ships in the harbor.
The chariots aid the marine command in accessing the adversary’s harbor 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.
About MARCOS
The MARCOS Commandoes of the Indian Navy are an elite unit of the Indian Navy. This unit was created in the year 1987. They are modeled on the lines and operations of the US Navy SEALS which is a formidable entity fielded by the American Naval Forces and also the British Special Boat Service (BSBC). This entity excels in both surface and underwater operations
They specialize in amphibious warfare and excel in maritime counter-terrorist operations. Apart from counter-terrorism, they have a range of responsibilities and roles such as specialized reconnaissance, unconventional warfare, protection of offshore assets, counter-piracy operations, underwater demolition, intelligence operations, and close-quarter combat. Their expertise in maritime operations, and guerilla warfare makes them a crucial asset in India’s maritime interests.
