SHISHUMAR (HDW 209) CLASS

Vessel Type: Submarine, Type 1500.
Names & Pennant Numbers with commission dates:
INS Shishumar S44 (22 September 1986) - Refit Complete
INS Shankush S45 (20 November 1986)
INS Shalki S46 (07 February 1992)
INS Shankul S47 (28 May 1994) - Refit Complete
Structure: The Shishumar Class have a central bulkhead and an IKL designed integrated escape sphere which can carry the full crew of 40 personnel, has an oxygen supply of 8 hours and can withstand pressure at least as great as those that can be withstood by the submarine's pressure hull.
Displacement: Surfaced; 1450 tons.
....................Dived; 1850 tons.
Dimensions: Length - 64.4 metres.
.................Beam - 6.5 metres.
.................Draught - 6 metres.
Diving Depth: 260 meters (853 feet)
Main Machinery: Four diesel-electric 2400 hp motors, one Siemens 4600 hp motor, four Siemens 1.8 MW alternators and one shaft.
Maximum Speed: Surfaced; 11 knots.
.......................Dived; 22 knots.
Maximum Range: 8000 miles at 8 knots. snorting
......................13,000 miles at 10 knots. surfaced.
Complement: 40 (incl. 8 Officers).
Radar: Surface; One Thomson-CSF Calypso radar at I-band frequency.
Sonar: One Atlas Elektronic CSU-83; active/passive search & attack with medium frequency. Also fitted with a Thomson Sintra DUUX-5 with passive ranging & intercept. Six Thomson-CSF Eldone TSM 2272 sonars were purchased from France in the 1990s and they could be installed onboard the Shishumar Class submarines, during their mid-life refits.
Weapons: Has eight 21" torpedo tubes which can fire the AEG-SUT Mod-1 wire-guided, active/passive homing torpedo, with a 250 kg warhead weight, at 15.3n miles; 28 km at 23 knots. The Type 1500 carries 14 torpedoes in total. Can carry 24 mines as an external strap-on type.
Weapons Control: Singer Librascope Mk.1
Countermeasures: ESM; Argo Phoenix II AR 700.
.........................Kollmorgen Sea Sentry.
Comments: After several years of discussion with Howaldtswerke Deutsche Werft AG Kiel, the Indian Navy came to an agreement on 11 December 1981. This was in four basic parts;
1) The building in West Germany of two HDW 209 Class subs.
2) The supply of packages for building of two more at Mazagon DY.
3) Training of various groups of specialists for the design & construction of last the two submarines.
4) Provide logistics services during the trials and commissioning as well as consultation services in Bombay.
The first two submarines sailed for India in February 1987, while the last two were delayed by assembly problems caused by faulty welding. In 1984 it was announced that two more submarines would be built at the Mazagon Dock Ltd. (MDL) in Mumbai, but this was overtaken by events in 1987-88 and the agreement with HDW was terminated at just four submarines. This was reconsidered in 1992 and again in 1997, but no orders were placed. It was reported that INS Shishumar suffered some minor damage, in early October 2003 off Goa, when it hit an underwater object.
The then-incumbent Defence Minister - George Fernandes - in a Parliamentary session on 22 November 2001, stated that equipment & spares of various supplies of American origin for the submarines was expected to arrive in the coming months and the target set for completion of the project is August 2002. Press reports state that the equipment and spares are fire control systems, radar warning systems and other related equipment worth $50 million. Captain S V Nair (Retd.), the then-incumbent Chairman & Managing Director of Mazagon Dock Limited (MDL), in an interview which appeared in a July/August 2000 issue of Business India, stated that INS Shishumar completed a mid-life refit at MDL in Mumbai and that INS Shankul was undergoing a similar refit.
Jane's Foreign Report [February 2005 issue] quoted a July 2004 report from India's Comptroller & Auditor General (CAG), which said that a Shishumar Class submarine had been non-operational since 2000, due to improper planning in the refit & modernisation process and would continue to do so till the end of 2005. The boat was most likely INS Shankul, as Captain S V Nair indicated that this particular submarine was undergoing a mid-life refit back in 2000. INS Shankul was back in service as of 2006, as she participated in the joint US & Indian Navy exercise - Malabar '06. Not much is known about these refits, other than the 'possible' installation of the Thomson-CSF TSM 2272 sonar. Also, there have been no official press communiqués if INS Shankush or INS Shalki will be undergoing similar refits. While the details of these refits would be interesting to document, Vice Admiral Jagjit Singh Bedi - currently the FOC-in-C Southern Naval Command - once said, "...the Navies of the world do not talk about their submarines."
The United News of India (UNI) reported on 06 September 2004, that Siemens of Germany has offered the Indian Navy an upgrade for the Shishumar Class submarines, which will involve the installation of an Air Independent Propulsion (AIP) system. Siemens has developed the PEM (Polymer Electrolyte Membrane) fuel cell modules which generate energy by converting hydrogen and oxygen into electricity. Dr Albert Hammerschmidt, Siemen's Director of PEM Fuel Cells for Submarines, stated that fuel cells are small, silent, produce only little heat, generate no exhaust gases and are highly efficient. He also mentioned that they have no moving parts, are practically maintenance-free and that they meet all military requirements for submarines with regard to magnetic behaviour, acoustic properties, and stray fields. Siemens Sales Manager, Richard Schmitzer, and Dr Hammerschmidt also mentioned that installing the AIP system will improve a submarine's functioning, by making less noise, have a lower magnetic and thermal signature, have lesser tell-tale emissions and can stay submerged longer.
Naval insiders feel that the four Shishumar Class submarines will approach the end of their combat life between 2016 and 2024, and thus the time is ripe to think about an upgrade. Talking about the upgrade process, Mr Schmitzer said it will involve cutting open the submarine, inserting the fuel cell module and then welding it back again and re-establishing all connections. Siemens has already carried out the upgrade of five HDW 209 Class submarines for the Greek Navy. The technology finds place in the U212 and U214 classes of submarines, being built by HDW, which are or shortly will be in service of German, Italian, Greek and South Korean navies. However, the Indian Navy is concerned with some aspects of design of this new technology, specially the storage of hydrogen (the raw fuel in the process) ashore. Navy sources state that while the submarine is at sea, there are no problems. But there are concerns about the storage of hydrogen, which is extremely flammable, on shore. According to the Siemens design, the hydrogen and the oxygen tanks are on opposite sides to reduce danger of an accident.

SINDHUGOSH (KILO) CLASS

Vessel Type: Submarine, Type 877EKM.
Names & Pennant Numbers with commission dates:
INS Sindhugosh S55 (30 April 1986) - Refit Complete
INS Sindhudhvaj S56 (12 June 1987)
INS Sindhuraj S57 (20 October 1987) - Refit Complete
INS Sindhuvir S58 (26 August 1988) - Refit Complete
INS Sindhuratna S59 (22 December 1988) - Refit Complete
INS Sindhukesari S60 (16 February 1989) - Refit Complete
INS Sindhukirti S61 (04 January 1990) - Undergoing Refit
INS Sindhuvijay S62 (08 March 1991) - Undergoing Refit
INS Sindhurakshak S63 (24 December 1997)
INS Sindhushastra S65 (19 July 2000)
Structure: The Kilo Class submarine has a single shaft with a double hull. Six compartments separated by bulkheads to enable it to remain afloat even when one is flooded. To reduce the submarine's acoustic signature, the flooding ports have been removed from the fore-body. Anechoic tiles are fitted on casings and fins. The submarine also has a new gas-freeing system to reduce risk of detection. The hull of the submarine is covered with rubber anti-sonar protection tiles which have a special ozonising layer to combat the sun's effects in tropical waters. The bow planes are positioned close to the mid-ship to improve sonar performance.
An engine change is probable during major refits in Russia which started in 1997, with INS Sindhuvir. A German-designed, Indian-built main battery, with a five year life has replaced the Russian batteries in all the vessels. Battery cooling has been improved as a result of the change.
Displacement: Surfaced; 2325 tons.
....................Dived; 3076 tons.
Dimensions: Length; 72.6 meters.
.................Beam; 9.9 meters.
.................Draught; 6.6 meters.
Diving Depth: Operational Depth; 240 meters.
...................Maximum Depth; 300 meters.
Main Machinery: Two diesel-electric motors with 3650 hp, one 5900 hp motor, two auxiliary motors with 204 hp and one economic speed motor with 130 hp.
Maximum Speed: Surfaced; 10 knots.
.......................Snorting; 9 knots.
.......................Dived; 17 knots.
Maximum Range: 6000 miles at 7 knots snorting.
.......................400 miles at 3 knots dived.
Complement: 52 (incl. 13 Officers).
Endurance at Sea: 45 days.
Radar: Navigation; One MRP-25 (NATO: Snoop Tray) radar at I-band frequency. Has a target separation system.
Sonar: One MG-519 (NATO: Mouse Roar) hull mounted sonar, active search with high frequency.
.........One MGK-400 (NATO: Shark Teeth/Shark Fin) hull mounted sonar, active/passive search & attack with medium frequency. A new sonar system (probably the MGK-400EM) is likely being installed during mid-life refits. INS Sindhugosh is fitted with a new indigenous Panchendriya package, which includes a sonar (USHUS) plus a fire control system.
Maintaining the dimensions of the MGK-400 sonar basic antennas, the MGK-400EM sonar optimally meets the requirements for diesel-electric submarines. The antenna comprises advanced receiving elements. The system's hardware consists of modern, high-speed data processing computers and multifunctional displays. Modern circuitry elements make it possible to employ effective data processing algorithms and significantly expand the range of its functions (in addition to those fulfilled by the MGK-400 system), including: target classification; LOFAR and DEMON procedures; automatic tracking of up to 12 targets; active search with complex sounding signals; new types of communications and IFF signals; detecting active signals of torpedo homing heads in an extended frequency range of the hydro-acoustic signal detection mode; measuring detected active signal parameters, etc.
The system's tactical and technical characteristics, specifically the sonar operation range and target positioning accuracy, have been significantly improved. The system has new service functions, such as measurement & control of noise and jamming conditions and prediction of the sonar operation range in the main modes. Automatic test and fault diagnosis capability significantly enhances the quality, reliability and ease of operation of the system. To reduce submarine sonar crew, MGK-400EM incorporates the MG-519EM mine-hunting system with presentation of its data on the MGK-400EM's common information display. The system is being further upgraded by introducing a channel of low-frequency echo-ranging which uses a flexible trailing antenna or extensive onboard antennas.
Weapons Control: Uzel MVU-119EM TCFS.
Weapons: From INS Sindhuvir onwards, a shoulder-held 9M36 Strela-3 (SA-N-8) SAM launcher is placed in the fin and is used when the submarine is surfaced. The missile has a range of 3.2n miles; 6 km with a 2 kg HE-FRAG warhead and uses infra-red homing for guidance. INS Sindhushastra is armed with the Klub-S (3M-54E variant) ASCM. This gives the Indian Navy, it's first under-water launched missile capability. The other submarines in the class will also be fitted with the capability during their mid-life refits. A maximum of five missiles can be carried, leaving room for a mix of torpedoes. In July 2006, it was announced that six of the boats would be armed with the land-attack variant of the Klub-S (3M-14E).
Six 533mm torpedo tubes which carries 18 heavyweight torpedoes (six in the tubes and 12 on the racks). It uses an automatic rapid loader which is remotely controlled from the main control panel or by the controls in the launch station. Two of the tubes can fire wire-guided torpedoes, while the other four have automatic reloading. Torpedo types include the Type 53-65 passive wake homing torpedo, at a range of 10.3n miles; 19 km at 45 knots with a 305 kg warhead and the TEST 71/76 anti-submarine, active & passive homing torpedo at a range of 8.1n miles; 15 km at 40 knots or 10.8n miles; 20 km at 25 knots with a 200 kg warhead.
Jane's Defence Upgrades (JDU) reported in November 2000 that eight upgraded torpedoes, designated as the TEST-71ME-NK, were sold to the Indian Navy. This electric, remotely-controlled homing torpedo can be used against either submarines or surface ships (previous models were for submarine engagements only) and has a maximum speed of 40 knots with a claimed range of 20 km. Weighing 1820 kg, the torpedo has a 205 kg explosive warhead and is powered by a silver-zinc single-use ampoule battery. Target detection ranges are 1500 meters for submarines and 180 meters for surface vessels. Equipped with acoustic and electromagnetic influence exploders, this new torpedo's operational characteristics allow reduced preparation time both at base and on-board the submarine. A practice version is available to allow training firing. Another version, TEST-71MKE, is for use against submarines only and is fitted with active sonar homing and tele-control systems.
Carries 24 DM-1 mines in lieu of torpedoes.
Countermeasures: A 'Squid Head' radar warning is used for ESM purposes.
Comments: Kilo Class submarines have been nicknamed 'Black Hole' by NATO for their silent operation in the sea. An agreement with Russia was concluded in the mid-1980s for the transfer of eight Kilo Class submarines. The first submarine in the class - INS Sindhugosh - was commissioned in April 1986 in Riga, Russia and seven more boats entered service with the Indian Navy in another five years. In January 1997, two 'improved' Kilo Class boats were ordered by the Indian Navy and the first - INS Sindhurakshak - was commissioned in December 1997 in St. Petersburg, Russia. This submarine was a spare Type 877EKM hull built for the Russian Navy, but was never purchased. The second boat - INS Sindhushastra - commissioned in July 2000 also at St. Petersburg, is rumoured to be a Type 636.
INS Sindhuvir completed a two-year mid-life refit at the Admiralty Shipyard, St. Petersburg in April 1999 and she was ready for active service in October 1999. INS Sindhuraj returned to Mumbai after completing her refit, also at the Admiralty Shipyard. INS Sindhukesari returned to Mumbai after completing her refit at the Zvyozdochka (Little Star) shipyard in Severodvinsk. INS Sindhuratna also completed her refit at Zvyozdochka SY and in September 2002, left on her return journey to India. INS Sindhugosh is the third submarine to complete her refit at the Zvyozdochka SY and returned to India in late 2005. INS Sindhuvijay is the next submarine undergoing a modernisation, which began in June 2005 also at the Zvyozdochka SY.
The mid-life refit involves a complete overhaul of the submarine, including its hull structure. An upgrade package is also part of this extensive refit, which has been designed by Zvyozdochka's Onega Research & Development Technological Bureau and costs roughly US $80 million. The refit sees the submarines being installed with the Klub-S ASCM (a maximum of five missiles can be carried) and the associated Lama-ER control system, new sonars (probably the MGK-400EM), electronic warfare systems, new control systems from Avrora such as the Palladij-M machinery control system and the AICS (Automated Information & Control system) integrated weapon control system.
INS Sindhugosh has likely been equipped with the 3M-14E land-attack cruise missile, a member of Klub family. The submarine has also been equipped with a Panchendriya package, which includes an Indian sonar (USHUS) developed by NPOL (Naval Physical Oceanographic Laboratory) of the Indian Navy and by BEL (Bharat Electronics Limited) and a fire control system developed by BEL and the Indian Navy's WEESE (Weapons Engineering & Electronics System Engineering) unit. The remaining submarines due for their mid-life refits, are to be fitted with this new indigenous Panchendriya package. The USHUS sonar is reported to offer superior performance over comparable Russian sonars.
At the February 2002 India-Russia Inter-Governmental Commission on Military Technical Cooperation, then-incumbent Defence Minister George Fernandes stated, "It has also been agreed to accord priority to the setting up of facilities required for the medium refit and upgradation of 877EKM submarines in India." This indicates that future refits of the remaining submarines might occur in India itself, rather than being sent to Russia. Reports indicate that the mid-life refits of two more submarines will occur at Hindustan Shipyard Limited, Vishakapatnam under Russian technical supervision. The two boats in question are probably INS Sindhukirti and INS Sindhudhvaj, as they are the last pair (from the original eight vessels) to undergo a mid-life refit. The United News of India (UNI) reported on 12 January 2006, that refit work had commenced on INS Sindhukirti at Hindustan SY Ltd.
The Cabinet Committee on Security (CCS), on 06 July 2006, approved the purchase of 28 Klub-S (3M-14E variant) land-attack cruise missiles at a cost of Rs 844.58 crores (USD $184 million). Defence Minister Pranab Mukherjee stated, "One has already been delivered, while another one is being retrofitted in Russia. The other four will be fitted with the missiles in India." This indicates that probably INS Sindhugosh is one of the boats being fitted with 3M-14E variant, as she is the last boat to have recently returned to India after completing her mid-life refit in Russia. INS Sindhuvijay appears to be the second boat to be armed with this missile variant, as she is the only boat currently in Russia undergoing a mid-life refit. The other four boats are more than likely to be the ones that have completed their mid-life refits. Arming the boats, with this particular variant of the Klub missile, is significant as it gives the Indian Navy the ability to attack targets on land.

FOXTROT CLASS

Vessel Type: Submarine, Type 641.
Names & Pennant Numbers with commission dates:
INS Vela S40 (31 August 1973) - Undergoing Refit
INS Vagli S42 (10 August 1974) - Refit Complete
Names & Pennant Numbers with commission dates:
Kalvari S23 (08 December 1967) - decommissioned on 31 May 1996
Khanderi S22 (06 December 1968) - decommissioned on 18 October 1989
Karanj S21 (04 September 1969) - decommissioned on 01 August 2003
Kursura S20 (18 December 1969) - decommissioned on 27 September 2001
Vagir S41 (03 November 1973) - decommissioned on 07 June 2001
Vagsheer S43 (26 December 1974) - decommissioned on 30 April 1997
Displacement: Submerged; 1950 tons.
....................Dived; 2475 tons.
Dimensions: Length - 91.3 metres.
................Beam - 7.5 metres.
................Draught - 6 metres.
Diving Depth: 250 meters (820 feet), reducing with age.
Main Machinery: Has three Type 37-D diesel electric generator sets with 6000 hp. Also has 3 motors which give 5400 hp. Has 3 shafts and 1 auxiliary motor with 140 hp.
Maximum Speed: Surfaced; 16 knots.
.......................Dived; 15 knots.
Maximum Range: 20,000 miles at 8 knots surfaced
.......................380 miles at 10 knots dived.
Complement: 75 (incl. 8 Officers).
Radar: Surface; One MRP-25 (NATO: Snoop Tray) radar at I-band frequency.
Sonar: One Hercules bow mounted sonar, passive search & attack with medium frequency.
..........One Fenik sonar, passive search & attack.
Weapons: Ten 533mm torpedo tubes (6 forward, 4 aft), with 22 SET-65E/SAET-60 active or passive homing torpedoes to 8.1n miles; 15 km at 40 knots. Carries 44 mines, in lieu of torpedoes.
Countermeasures: ESM; Stop Light - radar warning.
Comments: INS Vela is part of the 8th Submarine Squadron based at Vizag, while the INS Vagli is based at Mumbai. INS Vela is undergoing a refit, which may not be completed. A media report (The Hindu), dated 17 December 2006, stated that INS Vagli successfully completed her diving trials in late 2006, after a medium refit at the Hindustan Shipyard Limited at Vizag. The refit involved hull refurbishment and installation of main & auxiliary machinery and systems. The Karanj served as trials platform for the ATV command systems including the 'Rani' and 'Pachendriya' radar/sonar equipment. With her decommissioning on 01 August 2003, it is unsure which of the two remaining Foxtrot Class boats - if ever - will take over as the trials platform for the ATV's systems. The Kalvari and Kursura have been converted into submarine museums, based at Vizag.

SCORPENE SSK - PROJECT 75

Vessel Type: Submarine.
Future Commissions: The first of six boats is expected to join the Indian Navy in 2012.
Structure: The Scorpene Class features pressure hull weldable, high tensile HLES 80 steel and can withstand up to a depth of 350 meters (~ 1150 feet). The use of high yield, stress-specific steel gives the submarine an unlimited dive capacity, even at maximum depth. Unconfirmed reports indicate that the submarines for the Indian Navy (IN) will feature HLES 100 high yield and high elasticity steel, which will enable them to reach even greater depths. The albacore shaped hull has been designed for silent operations and thus when submerged, the submarine radiates very little noise which in turn improves the performance of its own sonars and also reduces the risk of detection by enemy submarines. The boat features a seven blade, skewed propeller which also assists in radiating low noise.
Displacement: Submerged; Not Known.
...................Surfaced; Not Known.
Dimensions: Length - Not Known.
................Draught - Not Known.
................Beam - Not Known.
Diving Depth: 350 meters (approximately 1150 feet).
Main Machinery: Two diesel generation sets providing a total output of 1250 kW. Also features an elastically supported electronic engine providing 2900 kW of power. The contract with DCN does permit the IN to fit the MESMA (Module d'energie Sousmarin Autonome) AIP (Air Independent Propulsion) module, after the third boat has been delivered. The Times of India reported on 22 January 2006, that the IN is indeed looking to install the system on the last three boats. The news article further stated that without the system, the Scorpene can remain underwater for a maximum of four days before surfacing or snorkelling to draw in oxygen needed to recharge its batteries. With AIP, the boat will be able to operate for 18 days, giving it a huge strategic advantage.
Each MESMA system is expected to cost US $50 to 60 million and the IN will have to acquire permission from the Cabinet Committee on Security (CCS) for the purchase. Vice Admiral Nirmal Verma, currently Chief of Personnel, stated "We are looking very closely at the AIP system and hope to get it in future. The Scorpenes, in any case, are a generation ahead of the Agosta submarines." The only export customer to date for the MESMA system, has been the Pakistan Navy which will use them on their Agosta 90B submarines. If indeed purchased, it would rule out the possibility of the IN acquiring PEM (Polymer Electrolyte Membrane) fuel cells from Siemens of Germany. Fuel cells are the German variant of an AIP system and are reportedly superior to the French system.
Proponents of the German fuel cells state that they have no moving parts and are thus virtually silent in operation. Its quietness is reportedly unmatched by any other current AIP system in the world. The fuel cells also do not emit exhaust heat, thereby reducing detection. Opponents of fuel cells state that the close proximity of hydrogen and oxygen is inherently dangerous and an explosion of such will result in both boat and crew being lost at sea. Opponents of the French MESMA system state that they are noisier than the German fuel cells because of their moving parts and the disposal of combustion gases, caused by the mixture of liquid oxygen and ethanol. Ultimately it is hoped that the user, regardless of system chosen, makes a final decision based on operational requirements.
Maximum Speed: Submerged; 20 knots.
.......................Surfaced; Not Known.
Maximum Range: Submerged; Not Known.
.......................Surfaced; Not Known.
Maximum Endurance: 45 days.
Complement: 31 (including ? Officers).
Sonar: The boat is fitted with a series of acoustic sensors, ranging from long-range, passive cylindrical arrays to distributed arrays to flank arrays to towed arrays to an intercept sonar and a high resolution sonar for detecting mines and avoiding obstacles. Some of the later boats could be fitted the USHUS sonar, developed locally by NPOL (Naval Physical Oceanographic Laboratory) of the Indian Navy and by BEL (Bharat Electronics Limited).
Weapons Control: The SUBTICS [Submarine Tactical Integrated Combat System] provides a complete tactical overview of the submarine's surrounding environment. The system consists of a weapon control system, a command & tactical data handling system, an assortment of sonar equipment and an integrated navigation system. With an ability to download data from external sources, it will allow the submarine to exchange & study tactical data received from other friendly submarines, surface combatants and/or ASW helicopters.
Weapons: Fitted with six bow-located 21" torpedo tubes, providing salvo launch capability. The torpedo of choice is the WASS Black Shark heavyweight torpedo. The Black Shark is a dual purpose, wire-guided torpedo which is fitted with an active/passive acoustic head and a multi-target guidance & control unit incorporating a counter- countermeasures system. It has an electrical propulsion system based on a silver oxide and aluminum battery. The boats will also be armed with the Block 2 variant of the Exocet SM-39 AShM which has a range of 50 km.
Countermeasures: The boats will be equipped with the AR-900 electronic support measures/direction-finding (ESM/DF) system from EDO Reconnaissance Systems of the US. They will also feature the WASS C303 anti-torpedo system.
Comments: Project 75 will be one of the Indian Navy's standard submarines for the 21st century. This program is not to be confused with the Advanced Technology Vessel, which is also under development. In February 2001, the then incumbent Chief of Naval Staff - Admiral Sushil Kumar - commented on the Project 75 program by stating, "Our emphasis will be on re-configuration to build more silent and hunter-killer submarines equipped with long-range weapons and advanced electronic warfare systems." He also stated that the work on upgrading the submarine building facilities at Mazagon Dock Limited in Mumbai had commenced, as the facility had been lying idle after the construction of two Shishumar Class submarines in the early 1990s.
The Admiral had previously stated that Project 75 would be a locally re-designed variant of the Shishumar Class, with a tube-launched missile capability. In fact, the first two boats were reportedly designated as the Modified Shishumar Class and were given pennant numbers of S48 and S49. However Captain S V Nair (Retd.) - former Chairman and Managing Director of Mazagon Dock Limited - in an interview to Business India in July-Aug 2000, stated that the program was on hold as the designs were still being debated. German Defence Minister Rudolf Scharping visited India in late February 2001, and held wide ranging discussions from strategy to hardware and is likely that he was indirectly selling the HDW kit for the Project 75 submarine. This suggests that the Project 75 program might have been based on the Shishumar Class, before the Navy decided to move on to more efficient platforms.
This theory gained more credence in June 2001, in an interesting twist of events, when the Ministry of Defence gave its stamp of approval for acquiring the Scorpene Class from DCN International, France. After a few years of protracted negotiations and rising costs, the Indian Government signed a contract in New Delhi on 06 October 2005 for six boats worth US $3.5 billion. All six vessels will be built at Mazagon Dock Limited in Mumbai, with the first boat expected to commission in 2012 and thereafter at the rate of one every year which would be around 2017/18. However, a spokesperson for DCN International stated in a press release, dated 12 September 2005, that the project could take 15 years to complete which would be around 2020/21.

ADVANCED TECHNOLOGY VESSEL

The Indian Navy leased a Russian 670 Skat (NATO: Charlie I) Class nuclear powered submarine for three years - from January 1988 to January 1991. In the Indian Navy, the vessel was referred to as the INS Chakra and was manned by a Russian crew who also had the task of training Indian submariners on how to operate the nuclear powered vessel. In addition to becoming a training ground, INS Chakra also acted as a design laboratory for developing and testing indigenous nuclear submarine technologies. The lease was not extended after January 1991 and the submarine was returned back to Vladivostock, Russia where it was decommissioned from Russian Naval service.

The Russian crew that trained the Indian submariners have now taken key posts, probably in the Indian Naval Design Organisation, to design India's nuclear powered submarine codenamed the Advanced Technology Vessel (ATV). This top secret project has facilities in New Delhi, Vizag, Hyderabad and Kalapakkam. A Naval Wing of DRDO runs the organization and since 1985 has had a retired Vice Admiral in charge. In late 2000, the ATV project was given a new lease of life with the appointment of Vice Admiral R.N. Ganesh to take charge. An experienced submariner, he commanded the Charlie I Class {INS Chakra} submarine when she was leased to India.

The hull design is ready and the displacement is estimated to be at 6000 tons. The 190 MW miniature nuclear propulsion system has been tested ashore, possibly at the Kalapakkam atomic research centre. Given the degree of Russian technical assistance, the submarine could resemble the Severodvinsk Class and/or the Akula Class. Reportedly, the submarine will have VLS tubes capable of firing multiple weapons. Fabrication has already commenced at Vizag, but there are no indications as to when the vessel will be laid down or launched. The plan is for a class of five submarines fitted with long-range, nuclear-tipped missiles. A nuclear-capable missile (dubbed 'Sagarika' by the press) is reportedly under development at the Aeronautical Development Establishment (ADE) at Bangalore, in southern India.

Searcher Mk II

Origine : Israel
The Searcher Mk II System is an operational, advanced fourth generation UAV system derived from the third generation original Searcher. The Searcher Mk II is built to meet your present and future challenges. It has excellent engine and aerodynamic performance, superior deployment and handling qualities and a new advanced universal UAV mission ground control center compatible with all MALAT systems. Both Searcher systems are in operational use.
In June of 1998, the IAF's Mini-UAV Squadron received improved 'Searcher 2' UAVs. The Searcher 2s have backswept wings, a new engine, a new navigation system and advanced communications systems.
With more than 120,000 operational hours, IAI is an established pacesetter in integrated UAV systems solutions. Shown is the SEARCHER II Tactical-Operational Multi-Role UAV system with IAI's EL/M- 2055 SAR/MTI UAV reconnaissance payload.
The larger Searcher MkII introduced in 1998, goes to 20,000ft and flies for 14 hours carrying 1200mm colour CCD video cameras for day use and FLIRs for night-time observation.
Missions
Enhanced tactical multi-payload UAV system for surveillance, reconnaissance, target-acquisition & artillery adjustment.
Characteristics
Operational Modes
Real-time payload and UAV control
GPS based interuptable airborne mission controller with real-time manual interrupt
capability
Autonomous return on datalink loss
Datalinks
Direct line-of-sight datalink
UAV aitborne data relay for beyond-line-of-sight datalink
Dual real-time command uplink
Single real-time data and video downlink bility
Payloads
Standard MOSP (TV & IR Combi) or SAR EL/M 2055.
Performance
Endurance: 15 Hr
Range: 200*km (105* nm), 250**km (130**nm)
Altitude: 20,000 ft
* Direct line-of-sight datalink
** Beyond-line-of-sight datalink using UAV airborne data relay
Launch & Recovery
Automatic Take-off and landing.
Technical Data
Weights: Max Take-off Weight 426 kg (940 lb) Max Payload Weight 100 kg (220 lb)
Dimensions: Overall Length 5.85 m (19.20 ft) Wingspan 8.55 m (28.10 ft)
Powerplant: Rotary engine 73 hp

Heron

Origine : Israel
The Heron UAV System is an operational fourth generation long-endurance medium-altitude system based on leading-edge technology with new fully automatic take-off and landing features. It provides deep-penetration, wide-area, real-time intelligence to national agencies, theater commanders and lower echelons.
The Heron provides ample modular space up to 250 kg for customer furnished equipment, is interoperable with other MALAT UAV systems and has demonstrated 52 hours of continuous flight.
Although Hermes 450 has a 20-hour endurance and a ceiling of 18,000 ft, there is, according to Israeli Defence Force sources, still a necessity in future operations for UAVs which surpass both these specifications. Baring this in mind, both companies are also continuing to development medium altitude long endurance (MALE) UAVs. In an attempt to meet this future requirement, Elbit/Silver Arrow is working on its twin-engined Hermes 1500 and IAI/MALAT, the Heron 1.

Missions
Medium Altitude and Long Endurance (MALE) Strategic UAV System for surveillance, reconnaissance, target-acquisition & artillery adjustment and/or CFE based missions.
Characteristics
Operational Modes
Real-time payload and UAV control
GPS based interuptable airborne mission controllert
Full autonomous flight
Autonomous return on datalink loss

Datalinks
Direct line-of-sight datalink
UAV aitborne data relay for beyond-line-of-sight datalink
Dual real-time command uplink
Single real-time data and video downlink
Satellite Datalink Integration capability

Payloads
Standard MOSP (TV & IR Combi)
SAR EL/M 2055
Maritime Patrol Radar
Customer furnished payloads

Performance
Endurance: 40 Hr
Range: 200*km (105* nm), 350**km (185**nm), 1,000***km(530***nm)
Altitude: 30,000 ft
* Direct line-of-sight datalink
** Beyond-line-of-sight datalink using UAV airborne data relay
*** Autonomous flight

Launch & Recovery
Automatic Take-off and landing.

Technical Data
Weights: Max Take-off Weight 1,100 kg (2,430 lb) Max Payload Weight 250 kg (550 lb)
Dimensions: Overall Length 8.50 m (27.90 ft) Wingspan 16.60 m (54.50 ft)
Powerplant: Dual engines, 4 cycle, 4 cylinder with turbo charge 100 hp

KAMOV KA-31 HELIX-B

Type: AEW helicopter.
Known Serial Numbers: IN-561
...............................IN-562
...............................IN-563
...............................IN-564
...............................IN-565
...............................IN-566
...............................IN-567
...............................IN-568
...............................IN-569
Powerplant: Two Klimov TV3-117VMAR turboshafts each rated at 1633 kW (2200 hp).
Maximum Speed: 135 knots (155 mph; 250 km/h).
Service Ceiling: 3500 meters (11,483 feet).
Range: 324 nautical miles (600 km).
Patrol Endurance: 2.5 hours.
Comments: In August 1999, the Indian Navy placed a firm order for four Ka-31 helicopters and a contract for an additional five was signed in February 2001. Total value of all nine helicopters is estimated at US $207 million. The first Ka-31 for the Indian Navy made its debut flight on 16 May 2001 and the first two of nine Ka-31 helicopters completed tests at the Kamov's Chkalovsky airfield near Moscow. The first batch of four aircraft was officially inducted into the Indian Naval Air Arm in April 2003 and the second batch arrived by the end of 2004. In Indian Navy service, these helicopters operate not only from aircraft carriers, destroyers and frigates but also from shore bases as well. Due to its limitations in terms of endurance, the helicopter will be fitted with a helicopter-to-helicopter in-flight refuelling capability. Also known as the Ka-29 RLD, the Ka-31 is a further development of the Ka-27 anti-submarine warfare helicopter. The Ka-31's wider fuselage - when compared to the cramped interior of the Ka-27/28 - offers greater accommodation space.
The Ka-31 is fitted with the E-801M Oko (Eye) airborne electronic warfare radar which features a 6x1 meter planar array mounted beneath the fuselage. The radar is folded and stowed beneath the aircraft's fuselage before being lowered into a vertical position, to allow 360º mechanical scanning of the radar once every ten seconds. The radar can simultaneously track up to 40 airborne or surface threats, and can detect fighter-sized aircraft from a range of 100 - 200 km (depending on the size of the target) and surface ships at a horizon of 200 km from an altitude of 9840 feet. Developed by the NIIRT (Nauchno-Issledovatelskiy Institut Radiotekhniki) Radio Scientific-Research Institute in Nizhny Novgorod, the radar antenna weighs 200 kg (441 lbs). The co-ordinates, speed and heading of a target gathered by the radar are transmitted via an encoded radio data-link channel to a ship-borne or shore-based command post.
This encoded radio data-link channel will introduce airborne network centric warfare to the Indian Navy, due to its advanced real-time capability. The secure data-link and onboard communication systems have a range of 150 km, at altitudes between 4950 and 11,000 feet. The Indian Navy's Ka-31s are also being fitted out with the Abris GPS featuring a 12-channel receiver. The GPS is designed & developed by Kronstadt - a firm in St. Petersburg, Russia. Abris will provide all satellite navigation data. Other Kronstadt systems featured in the Ka-31 helicopter will include navigational equipment for digital terrain maps, ground-proximity warning, obstacle approach warning, auto-navigation of pre-programmed routes, flight stabilization and auto homing onto and landing at the parent carrier/base and information concerning the helicopter's tactical situation.

KAMOV KA-25 HORMONE

Type: ASW helicopter.

Known Serial Numbers: IN-571
...............................IN-572
...............................IN-573
...............................IN-574
...............................IN-575
...............................IN-576
...............................IN-577
Powerplant: Two Glushenkov GTD-3F turboshafts each rated at 671-kW (900-shp).
Maximum Speed: 113 knots (130 mph; 182 km/h).
Service Ceiling: Not Known.
Range: 216 nautical miles (400 km).
Sensors: The Ka-25s of the Indian Navy featured a search radar, a dipping sonar in the cabin rear and a canister of sonobuoys fitted externally.
Weapons: Under fuselage weapons bay for homing torpedoes plus depth bombs.
Comments: Seven Ka-25s (all being ex-Soviet Navy) were on order for the Indian Navy, and these formed the equipment of the new INAS 333 Squadron, commissioned in December 1980. Each operated by a two-man crew, the Ka-25s were essentially for ASW with secondary surveillance and SAR duties. Endurance was three hours, but the helicopter had a limited night and all-weather sonar-dipping capability. The Ka-25 are still in service with the Naval Air Arm, albeit in a limited role.

KAMOV KA-28 HELIX-A

Type: ASW helicopter.

Known Serial Numbers: IN-571
...............................IN-572
...............................IN-573
...............................IN-574
...............................IN-575
...............................IN-576
...............................IN-577
...............................IN-582
...............................IN-584
Number in Service: 13 (incl. 3 trainers).
Powerplant: Two Isotov TV3-117BK turbo shafts, each rated at 1660-kW (2225-shp), drive contra-rotating blades which have been shortened in length by comparison with those of the Ka-25 for better manoeuvrability on deck.
Operational Speed: 110 knots (204 km/h).
Service Ceiling: 12,000 ft. (3660 miles).
Range: 270 nautical miles (500 km).
Sensors: Splash Drop search radar, VGS-3 dipping sonar and sonobuoys.
Weapons: Up to about 2000 kg of disposable stores carried in a lower-fuselage weapon bay, and generally comprising two torpedoes or depth charges.
Comments: A total of 13 Ka-28s (export version of the Ka-27PL) entered service with the Indian Navy in the mid-80s, including three equipped for the training role. Additional helicopters may have been purchased, but that cannot be confirmed. The Ka-28 was purchased to complement the Ka-25 and it's ASW capabilities are better than its predecessor. The helicopter is considered a quantum jump ahead of the Ka-25 in terms of ASW capability and versatility, with an endurance of over four hours. There is no commonality between the two types, the Ka-28 representing a 20-year technology leap, being equipped with advanced sensors, search-radar, computers, dipping sonar, data-link and MAD (magnetic anomaly detector) equipment.
The Scientific Research Institute of Systematic Equipment at St. Petersburg, Russia is currently developing a variant of the Fagot anti-ship warfare suite for the Ka-28 helicopters in service with the Indian Navy. Unconfirmed reports, in September 2000, stated that five Ka-28s are currently in the Sevastopol Aircraft Enterprise, Russia where they are undergoing a major five-month overhaul. This information has not been confirmed from reliable sources. In December 2001, India Defence Consultants (IDC) reported that an $18-million deal for six additional Ka-28s have been placed by the Indian Navy. There has been no press release from the Ministry of Defense (MoD) confirming this.

ILYUSHIN IL-38 MAY

Type: Long range maritime patrol aircraft.
Aircraft delivered to date: IN301 (1977)
...................................IN302 (1977) - air accident on 01 October 2002
...................................IN303 (1977) - upgraded to 'SD' standard
...................................IN304 (1983) - air accident on 01 October 2002
...................................IN305 (1983) - upgraded to 'SD' standard
...................................IN30? (to be delivered)
...................................IN30? (to be delivered)

Dimensions (External): Wingspan - 37.42 metres (122.9 feet).
..............................Length (overall) - 36.9 metres (129.1 feet).
..............................Height (overall) - 10.7 metres (33.4 feet).
Engine: The IL-38 has four 3125kW (4190 ehp) Ivchenko Al-20M turboprops, driving four blade propellers.
Accommodation: The IL-38 has a flight crew of three personnel, which includes a Pilot, a Co-Pilot and a Flight Engineer. The operational crew is believed to be nine personnel, which includes a tactical coordinator, sensor operators, a MAD (Magnetic Anomaly Detector) operator and observers.
Operational Speed: 347 knots (645 km/h).
Service Ceiling: 32,800 ft. (10,000 meters).
Range: 3887 nautical miles (7200 km).
Sensors: The IL-38 has a search & attack radar (NATO: Wet Eye), a MAD (magnetic anomaly detector) system, an ESM (electronic support measures) system and numerous active & passive sonobuoys.
Weapons: The IL-38 can carry torpedoes, FAB 250 freefall bombs and depth charges. The aircraft has been retrofitted to carry the Sea Eagle AShM.
Role: Shore-based, long-range ASW recon into the Indian Ocean.
Comments: The IL-38s formally entered service with the Indian Navy on 01 October 1977, with the commissioning of INAS 315 Winged Stallions at INS Hansa in Dabolim, Goa. The squadron was formed with just three aircraft in 1977 and two more examples joined the squadron in 1983. The first three aircraft were from ex-AV-MF (Russia's Naval Air Force) stocks and latter two aircraft could also have been acquired from the same source, but that is yet to be confirmed beyond reliable doubt. The IL-38s regularly fly 10 - 12 hour endurance sorties over the Arabian Sea and have proved to be reliable in the roles of maritime reconnaissance (MR), anti-submarine warfare (ASW) and search & rescue (SAR). A tragic mid-air crash occurred on 01 October 2002, during the squadron's silver jubilee celebrations. A pair of IL-38s (IN-302 and IN-304), which were flying parallel to each other, clashed and suffered a mid-air collision above the airport. All aircrew aboard both aircraft were killed and both aircraft were also destroyed.
The Indian Navy launched an upgrade program to extend the life of the IL-38 maritime patrol aircraft and a contract was signed in September 2002 to refit five aircraft. Leninets Institute of Russia was given the task of fitting the Morskoy Zmei (Sea Dragon) multi-mission avionics & electronic warfare suite and Ilyushin first checks & upgrades the airframes and engines prior to fitting the Sea Dragon system, designed by Leninets. Due to the loss of two aircraft, Russia has donated two additional aircraft free of charge from ex-AV-MF (Russia's Naval Air Force) stocks. The first aircraft (IN-305) flew to Russia for the upgrade in March 2002 and returned to India on 15 January 2006. This modernization will allow the aircraft to remain operational for 15 years. The aircraft are flown from India to Russia where the refits take place. The upgraded aircraft go by the designation IL-38SD and costs US $35 million per aircraft.
The fully digital Sea Dragon suite is designed to detect & intercept surface vessels and submarines, as well as detect mines and carry out surveillance. It can track more than 30 targets at one time from a distance of up to 320 kilometers. The suite can also detect airborne targets and can be linked to the Russian Glonass satellite navigation system. It encompasses a new synthetic-aperture/inverse-synthetic-aperture radar located in a canoe fairing on the belly, a high-resolution FLIR (forward-looking infra-red) sensor, a LLTV (low-light television) camera, a new ESM (electronic-support-measures) system and a new MAD (magnetic anomaly detector) system in the aft section of the aircraft. The IL-38s will also be fitted with radio-frequency and infrared sensors, as well as decoys. Indian elements are a key part of the upgrade with DRDO (Defence Research and Development Organisation) supplying the aircraft's new electronic intelligence system, electronic countermeasures station system, digital firing decoys and radio communication system. The addition of the R-73RDM2 short-range, air-to-air missile is also being contemplated.

TUPOLEV TU-142 BEAR-F

Type: Long Range Maritime Patrol.
Number in Service: There are reportedly 10 aircraft in service, but that number has not been confirmed to date. Thus the official figures stand at eight aircraft. Three aircraft arrived at Dabolim, Goa in March 1988, two more examples were flown in April 1988 and the last three were flown between August and October 1988.
Aircraft Serial Numbers: IN-311
................................IN-312
................................IN-313
................................IN-314
................................IN-315
................................IN-316
................................IN-317
................................IN-318

Dimensions (External): Wingspan - 51.1 metres (167 feet).
..............................Length (overall) - 49.5 metres (162 feet).
..............................Height (overall) - 12.12 metres (39 feet).
..............................Propeller Diameter - 5.6 metres (18 feet).

Engine: The Tu-142M has four KKBM Kuznetsov NK-12MV turboprops, with eight-blade contra-rotating reversible-pitch Type AV-60N propellers. Each turboprop is rated at 11,033 kW (14,795 shp). Recently it was announced that the Indian Navy intended to overhaul & modernise the Tu-142M's turboprops at the Motorostroitel aircraft factory in Samara, Russia. The factory also undertakes the major overhaul of around 15 Indian NK-12MV engines, annually. A flight refuelling probe, fitted above the nose, allows for in-flight refuelling. A flush light each side of probe in upper part of nose aids night in-flight refuelling.
Accommodation: The Tu-142M has a flight crew of four personnel, which includes the Pilot/Commander, Co-Pilot, Flight Engineer and Flight Signaller. A Flight Gunner serves as the tail gunner at the tail turret. Another five personnel operate as navigators/observers. The Observers perform the duties of Weapon System and Sensor officers, while a senior navigator coordinates the entire ASW phase of the mission.
Operational Speed: 500 knots (925 km/h).
Service Ceiling: 45,000 ft. (13,720 metres).
Range: 6775 nautical miles (12,550 km).
Sensors: The Tu-142M is fitted with the Korshun-K automatic search & sighting system and MMS-106 Ladoga magnetometer which are intended for detecting low-noise, nuclear-powered submarines. Also installed are the NPK-142M upgraded navigation and piloting system, the Strela-142M on-board communication system, the Nerchinsk hydrological defense system, the Sayany on-board defense system and an automatic encoded radio communication system. The aircraft also has a search & attack radar (NATO: Wet Eye) and numerous active & passive sonobuoys, some of which include RGB-15, RGB-25, RGB-55A and RGB-75 buoys.
Weapons: The Tu-142M can carry 12 torpedoes, FAB 250 freefall bombs and depth charges. It has a DK-12 rear gun system with two 23mm AM-23 cannons. In the late 1990s, it was announced that the Sea Eagle AShM would be integrated with the aircraft.
Maximum External Stores Load: 20,000 kg (44,090 lbs).
Role: Entered service in April 1988 for long-range surface surveillance and anti-submarine warfare.

Comments: The Tu-142 is the maritime reconnaissance/strike version of the Tu-95 which served as a Russian nuclear weapons capable bomber and is the fastest and highest flying turboprop aircraft in the world. The aircraft's long range (can fly from Bombay to Johannesburg, South Africa and back without refuelling) combined with its heavy payload of 20,000 lbs. is a valuable asset to the Indian Navy's ASW and MR capability. The aircraft is fondly called the Albatross because of the massive wingspan of the aircraft. Also known as the Sentinel of the Ocean, this aircraft can remain airborne for sixteen hours. Negotiations were reportedly on with Rosoboronexport (Russia's Federal State Unitary Enterprise which is responsible for arms exports to foreign nations) to procure six to eight more Tu-142s from refurbished ex-VVS storage stocks. However with the tragic mid-air crash of a pair of IL-38s in October 2002, the Indian Navy shifted her attention to acquire additional IL-38s to overcome the loss and therefore acquisition of additional Tu-142s seems unlikely. The Tu-142s operate from INS Rajali (East) and INS Hansa (West) for regular, long range patrols into the Bay of Bengal and the Arabian Sea.
Defense News reported in March 2004 that the Indian Navy had requested new avionics and electronic warfare suites for the Tu-142, for the detection and interception of surface vessels and submarines within a range of 150 kilometres, as well as the capability to detect mines and carry out long-range and long-endurance surveillance. The upgrade is also expected to enable the aircraft to be linked to the Indian satellite navigation system and be fitted with an observation system that will work in night and day. The primary ambition of the upgrade is to conduct maritime patrol missions and forge a linkage between India's nuclear command center and its futuristic nuclear submarine. The upgrade will further enable the aircraft to carry air-launched versions of the Klub and BrahMos ASCMs.

In the same March 2004 report, Defense News reported that the Indian Navy had approached Rosoboronexport in November 2003 to upgrade their fleet of Tu-142s for a cost no more than USD $555.5 million. However the proposal put forward by Rosoboronexport to upgrade these aircraft with the Morskoy Zmei (Sea Dragon) multi-mission avionics and electronic warfare suite was rejected. The primary reasons were reportedly system performance issues and an exorbitant price tag, listed at USD $888.9 million by Rosoboronexport. In January 2004, a team of Indian Naval Aviation pilots visited Russia to evaluate a Sea Dragon-equipped Tu-142 aircraft. However the Sea Dragon suite failed to meet essential parameters and its detection capabilities were found inadequate. In February 2004, the Indian Navy approached Rosoboronexport again to have Israeli firms collaborate with Russian firms to customise a MMA and EW suite. However that proposal was rejected by Rosoboronexport, on the basis that the upgrade would have to be wholly Russian and must include the Sea Dragon suite.

Again from the same March 2004 report, Defense News reported that the Indian Navy then turned directly towards Israeli firms for the upgrade and that the Ministry of Defence would issue two individual RFPs (Requests For Proposals) to Israel Aircraft Industries (IAI) and Elbit Systems to tailor a MMA and EW suite for the Tu-142 fleet. The RFPs are expected to be issued by the MoD in April 2004 and proposals are expected to be due within three months. This upgrade is expected to wholly revamp the Tu-142 into a modern maritime recon and electronic warfare aircraft. It is assumed that this has already taken place. By early 2004, the IN had reportedly completed with the refit of a Tu-142M (IN 315) with the Elta EL/M-2022A (V3) radar. The radar replaced the Leninets Korschun system and a comprehensive ELINT and COMINT package, with nose and fuselage mounted V/UHF antennae and an underfuselage P-band antenna farm, was also incorporated. This upgrade is similar to the upgrade package of the IN's Do-228s and features additional SATCOM, ELINT and EW equipment. It would be interesting to compare the capabilities of the Russian warfare suite with its Israeli counterpart, as the IL-38s are to be upgraded with the Sea Dragon suite.
Interfax-AVN reported in September 2004, that the Taganrog Aviation Company (Tavia) was implementing a contract for the repair of a Tu-142ME aircraft of the Indian Navy. Tavia's Director General, Nikolai Savitskikh, stated, "Another Indian plane of this type is currently under repairs at the aircraft plant. According to the schedule, the enterprise must annually repair one Indian Tu-142ME." He also stated that the enterprise was only repairing the Indian aircraft, not upgrading them. "Eight Tu-142MEs were supplied to India in 1987-1988. They are repaired in turns, all of them have been repaired once and are now up for the second repairs," the Director General said. He also added that repairs of both Russian and Indian Tu-142 planes provide for most of the company's workload.