UNDERSEA
CHARIOTS - DEFENCE & SECURITY
News:
Navy plans to get
undersea chariots, made in India, for special operations
What's
in the news?
●
The Indian
Navy is planning to acquire indigenously-made swimmer delivery vehicles —
also known as underwater chariots and midget submarines — as part of efforts to
modernize and strengthen the capabilities of its Marine Commandos (MARCOS) for
special undersea operations.
Key
takeaways:
Vehicle
Design:
●
Powered by lithium-ion batteries.
●
Capacity to accommodate a crew of at least
six.
●
Larger size allows for extended underwater
missions and increased operational range in shallow waters.
●
Ability to carry additional weaponry for
various specialized operations.
Procurement
Plans:
●
Initial prototype development underway.
●
Intention to procure several dozen
vehicles for the Navy upon successful prototype testing.
MARCOS:
●
The Marine
Commandos, also known as MARCOS and officially termed Marine Commando Force (MCF), constitute the special forces unit of the
Indian Navy.
●
Originally named Indian Marine Special
Force, later renamed Marine Commando Force to provide an individual identity,
subsequently abbreviated to MARCOS.
●
Founded in February 1987, MARCOS possesses
versatile capabilities in maritime, airborne, and land-based operations.
●
Nickname:
Magarmach (The Crocodiles), Dadhiwala Fauj (The bearded army)
●
Motto:
"The Few, The Fearless".
●
Anniversary: 14 February.