TKMS links up with Indian firm to work on submarine weapons technologies

September 3, 2025, by Fatima Bahtić

German defense giant TKMS has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with India’s VEM Technologies for cooperation in the area of submarine weapons technologies.

As disclosed, the partners will work on the development, production, integration, testing and modernization of heavyweight torpedoes. Supported by TKMS and its segment Atlas Elektronik, VEM Technologies will take over the integration and testing of the torpedoes in India.

“The Memorandum of Understanding sends a clear signal: TKMS stands ready as a reliable partner to the Indian Navy. We are applying our technical expertise to accelerate the Make-in-India strategy and strengthen the local defense industry in the long term,” Oliver Burkhard, CEO of TKMS, commented.

In addition to its agreement with VEM Technologies, TKMS is also strengthening its partnership with CFF Fluid Control Limited. This Indian company specializes in mechanical and electronic systems for the Indian Navy.

Together, they plan to advance the development and production of advanced anti-submarine warfare (ASW) systems for surface ships and other strategic uses.

Both companies are exploring further opportunities to expand their cooperation. This includes potential participation in the P75(I) submarine program, working with the Defense Research and Development Organization (DRDO), and other Indian organizations, and creating new production centers in India. These centers would serve both local and international customers in the future.

P-75(I) program is an Indian Ministry of Defence initiative to buy six new diesel-electric submarines for the Indian Navy. This program was first created in 1997 to replace the navy’s older Sindhughosh-class submarines with a new class of conventional attack submarines.