In August 2025, India achieved a breakthrough in deep-sea exploration as two Indian aquanauts descended to depths of 4,025 and 5,002 metres in the Atlantic Ocean, joining an elite group of fewer than six nations to reach such depths. The dives, conducted in collaboration with France’s IFREMER using the submersible Nautile, mark India’s first ventures beyond 4,000 metres and lay the groundwork for the upcoming Samudrayan Mission.
The Indo-French expedition provided Indian scientists hands-on experience in piloting submersibles, collecting deep-sea samples, and managing complex underwater systems. This knowledge will be crucial for operating India’s indigenous MATSYA-6000—a human submersible designed to reach 6,000 metres—set for full deployment by 2027.
These missions are strategically significant for tapping into India’s vast Exclusive Economic Zone and exploring deep-sea mineral resources. They also strengthen India’s blue economy goals and scientific leadership. Coupled with its space exploration achievements, India’s progress in ocean research positions the nation as a rising global leader in high-technology frontiers.
