Veteran submariner Commodore Shailesh Bhalachandra Jamgaonkar (Retd.), Indian Navy, has assumed the charge as Director (Submarine and Heavy Engineering) at Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders Ltd (MDL), effective March 25, 2025. His appointment comes just a week after MDL commenced production of the first Air Independent Propulsion (AIP) system for the Indian Navy’s Scorpene-class submarines.
Extensive Experience in Submarine Programs
Cmde Jamgaonkar has played a pivotal role in MDL’s submarine programs, spearheading significant initiatives, including the P75 Additional Submarines project, the installation of Air Independent Propulsion (AIP) systems on Scorpene submarines, and the indigenization of critical submarine equipment. Before assuming his current position, he served as Executive Director (Services) at the East Yard of MDL. He joined the shipyard in September 2023 as Executive Director (Technical-EY) after he retired from the Indian Navy. His extensive experience and leadership have been instrumental in advancing the strategic capabilities of the organization.
Naval and Technical Background
Cmde Jamgaonkar holds a degree in Mechanical Engineering from Birla Vishwakarma Mahavidyalaya, Gujarat, and completed a Postgraduate Course in Nuclear Technology from BARC, Mumbai, after joining the Indian Navy.
With 29 years of service in the Indian Navy’s Submarine Arm, he has held various operational and technical roles at sea and ashore. He was also actively involved in constructing and commissioning non-conventional platforms for the Indian Navy.
Tenure & Strategic Impact
MDL states that Cmde Jamgaonkar will hold this position until April 30, 2027, or until further orders.
His leadership comes at a crucial time as MDL advances its AIP Plug construction. The AIP system will be integrated into Project 75 submarines during their scheduled refits. It is expected to significantly enhance submarine endurance and operational capabilities, strengthening India’s maritime defence.
In December 2024, the Ministry of Defence (MoD) signed a Rs 1,990 crore contract with MDL to construct and integrate the DRDO-developed AIP Plug into conventional submarines, marking a major milestone in India’s indigenization efforts.
Team BharatShakti
