Shishumar
India1986 - Present
The Shishumar class (German Type 209) was India's first indigenously assembled submarine class. Though the oldest submarines in Indian service, ongoing upgrades keep them combat-relevant.
Primary Specifications
Displacement
1850 ton
German Type 209 design
Length
64 m
Compact coastal submarine
Max Depth
260 m
Designed for shallow waters
Armament (Primary)
Torpedoes
Torpedo-focused armament
Crew
40
Efficient German design crew
Quick Summary
What it is?
A diesel-electric attack submarine for conventional warfare
Who uses it?
Indian Navy 10th Submarine Squadron, Mumbai
Role
Anti-submarine and anti-surface warfare
What's different?
Features unique IKL-designed escape sphere for entire 40-person crew - being upgraded with Harpoon Block II missiles for anti-ship capability
Why it matters?
Represented India's first step toward indigenous submarine construction and continues serving after major life-extension upgrades.
Real-World Impact
1
Torpedo Attack
Eight torpedo tubes can rapidly engage surface ships and submarines
2
Mine Warfare
Can carry 24 external mines for defensive or offensive mining operations
3
Crew Safety
Unique escape sphere can save entire crew from emergency at maximum depth
4
Training Platform
Provides experienced crew training for newer submarine classes
Additional Features
Propulsion Type
Diesel-Electric
Stealth Features
Integrated Escape Sphere
Special Capabilities
High maneuverability; HDW German design
FAQs
1. What does 'Shishumar' mean?
Shishumar means 'Crocodile' in Sanskrit. The four submarines in the class all have names beginning with 'Sh'.2. Where were they built?
3. What is the escape sphere?
4. What upgrades are planned?
5. How fast can it go?
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