Indian Naval Submarine CO Could Face Court Martial Over Mishap

INS Sindhurakshak’s commanding officer (CO) is likely face a court martial for alleged lapses that led to sinking of the Russian-made Kilo-class submarine on August 14, 2013, according to Hindustan Times newspaper.

Three officers and 15 sailors lost their lives in the mishap involving the submarine following which the naval headquarters had ordered an inquiry. “The accident took place due to a torpedo blowing up in the weapons compartment. It seems to be a case of mishandling of weapons, according to the probe report,” sources told the Hindustan Times.

The 2,300 tonne fully-armed boat sank at the Mumbai harbor barely seven months after a mid-life upgrade costing $133 million in Russia.

At least 25 personnel, including 16 officers are facing action for lapses that led to accidents under their watch. The CO is the latest to face action for mistakes that caused mishaps, the report added.