On September 13, 2024, the Indian Navy officially opened the Kalvari Submarine Escape Training Facility, also known as “Vinetra,” at INS Satavahana in Visakhapatnam. The facility was inaugurated by Vice Admiral Rajesh Pendharkar, Flag Officer Commanding-in-Chief of the Eastern Naval Command, and represents a major leap in bolstering the operational readiness and safety of India’s submarine fleet.
Designed and developed indigenously under the Aatmanirbhar Bharat initiative, the facility aims to enhance the escape capabilities of the crew from Kalvari-class submarines in case of distress. The training centre, which was constructed by L&T Defence as a turnkey project, has a five-meter escape tower integrated with a nearby diving basin. The facility will be used to provide both basic and refresher escape training to submarine crew members, ensuring they are proficient in underwater emergency procedures.
The name “Vinetra” (विनेत्र), which translates to “Trainer,” indicates India’s increasing defence capability independence and dedication to updating its naval infrastructure. The facility will play a critical role in building confidence among submariners by ensuring they are well-prepared to execute escape protocols during emergencies. The state-of-the-art infrastructure is designed to simulate real-life underwater escape scenarios, offering practical, hands-on training to naval personnel.
The Kalvari Submarine Escape Training Facility is the first of its kind in India. Its construction aligns with global best practices, and it includes sophisticated systems to simulate the complexities of underwater escape scenarios. With the addition of this facility, the Indian Navy has taken a significant step in enhancing the safety standards for its submariners while also advancing India’s strategic autonomy in defense technologies. This facility will serve Indian naval forces and provide training opportunities for allied navies in the future.
The commissioning of Vinetra reinforces the Indian Navy’s focus on operational safety, readiness, and preparedness. The project is part of a larger effort by the Navy to invest in indigenous solutions and upgrade its training facilities in line with global standards, ensuring the safety and effectiveness of its fleet.