India is set to integrate its first indigenous Air-Independent Propulsion (AIP) system into INS Khanderi, enhancing the Indian Navy’s submarine capabilities by enabling extended submerged operations without surfacing. The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) has developed a unique hydrogen-on-demand technology, improving safety and logistics while making the system environmentally friendly. The AIP retrofit for INS Khanderi, scheduled for mid-2026, represents a significant step in India’s defense indigenization efforts, signifying a leap in self-reliance and technological sophistication. This advancement strengthens India’s maritime deterrence, particularly in the strategically vital Indian Ocean Region, and showcases the effective collaboration between DRDO and domestic industry partners.