On August 4, 2025, Hindustan Shipyard Limited (HSL) delivered the upgraded INS Sindhukirti submarine to the Indian Navy, bolstering India’s undersea warfare capabilities in a ceremony that underscores growing domestic expertise. The Soviet-origin Kilo-class submarine underwent its normal refit at HSL’s Visakhapatnam facility, with the project notably completed four months ahead of schedule. This refit began in January 2023 and included significant upgrades such as modern propulsion systems and escape hatches compatible with Deep Submergence Rescue Vehicles, aligning with the Navy’s push for operational readiness and safety. The timely completion not only marks HSL’s emergence as a contender for future submarine contracts—both domestically and in talks with foreign navies—but also demonstrates India’s commitment to the Atmanirbhar Bharat initiative, promoting indigenous defense manufacturing and local employment. With INS Sindhukirti rejoining the operational fleet, the Indian Navy’s submarine force now stands strengthened, a vital development amid evolving security dynamics in the Indian Ocean region, including rising challenges from neighboring naval powers.