BERLIN

Germany and India’s key defense companies signed a memorandum of understanding on Wednesday for the possible building of six advanced non-nuclear submarines for the Indian Navy. 

The agreement was signed in the presence of German Defense Minister Boris Pistorius during his official visit to New Delhi.

German shipbuilder Thyssenkrupp Marine Systems said in a statement that together with its Indian partner Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders, they have expressed their intention to build submarines for the Indian Navy and “contribute to Germany’s strategic cooperation with India.”

“We look back on a trusting and decade-long partnership with India. The boats we built in the 1980s are still in service today. We are very proud of that and would be delighted to continue contributing to India’s national security in the future. We are ready when India calls,” said the company’s CEO, Oliver Burkhard.

India is looking for a cooperation partner for the production of six submarines in the country but has not yet taken a decision on the matter. The defense project is expected to cost over $5 billion, according to local media reports.