The Indian Navy is planning to procure five midget submarines for the Marine Commandos (MARCOS). This is to strengthen its capabilities of carrying out special underwater operations in high seas. Submarines weighing less than 150 tonnes are classified as midgets and are used by the Navies to carry out underwater covert operations and surveillance missions.<br/>According to Defence Ministry sources, the Navy has already initiated the process of procuring these vessels. The induction of these midgets will strengthen the Navy’s operational capabilities after the 26/11 terror strikes in Mumbai last year. With capacity of carrying four to six personnel on board, the submarines would have a diving depth of around 400 metres.<br/>The midgets will have the capability of carrying out both manned and unmanned operations and will be equipped with a host of weapons including torpedoes.