VINETRA Commissioned at INS Satavahana, Visakhapatnam

The Kalvari Submarine Escape Training Facility (VINETRA) was commissioned by Vice Admiral Rajesh Pendharkar, the Flag Officer Commanding-in-chief, Eastern Naval Command, at INS Satavahana, Visakhapatnam. 

Aim

The facility, aims to enhance the escape capabilities of crew from a distressed Kalvari-class submarine, and has been indigenously designed and developed, keeping in line with the ‘Aatmanirbhar Bharat’ initiative, highlighting India’s focus on self-reliance in defense capabilities.

Design

• Constructed by M/s L&T Defence as a turnkey project, the Kalvari Submarine Escape Training Facility is equipped with a five-meter escape tower integrated with an adjacent diving basin.
• This state-of-the-art facility will be utilized for imparting both basic and refresher escape training to the crew of Kalvari-class submarines, ensuring that they are proficient in escape procedures in the event of a submarine distress situation.

General Info

• Named “Vinetra,” meaning “Trainer,” the facility marks a significant step forward in ensuring the safety and confidence of Indian Navy submariners.
• By offering specialized training, it enhances operational readiness and reinforces the Navy’s focus on safety protocols and preparedness in underwater emergency situations.

What are Kalvari class submarines?

• Kalvari-class submarines are a series of diesel-electric attack submarines built for the Indian Navy.
• It has been constructed with technology transfer from the French Pharm Naval Group under a program called Project 75.
• These submarines are based on the Scorpène-class, originally designed by the French shipbuilder Naval Group (formerly DCNS). The Kalvari-class submarines are a key component of India’s underwater warfare capabilities, designed for a range of tasks including anti-ship warfare, anti-submarine warfare, intelligence gathering, and area surveillance.

Examples 

• Ins Kalvari
• Ins Khanderi
• Ins Karanj
• Ins Vela
• Ins Vagashir
• Ins Vagir