India's ambitious program to develop a new class of nuclear-powered attack submarines (SSNs) is on track to achieve a major milestone, with the design phase expected to conclude by mid-2029, according to sources familiar with the project.
This new SSN represents a significant leap forward in India's naval capabilities, distinct from the existing Arihant-class ballistic missile submarines (SSBNs).
The project's origins trace back to the initial conception of the Arihant-class, which began as an SSN program. However, the design was subsequently altered to produce India's first fleet of SSBNs, capable of launching nuclear-armed ballistic missiles.
Now, with approval from the Ministry of Defence (MoD), the dedicated SSN program is moving forward with a completely new design incorporating cutting-edge advancements.
A defining characteristic of the new SSN will be its focus on stealth and hydrodynamic efficiency. Sources indicate the submarines will feature a cylindrical hull, a design known to minimize water resistance.
This contributes to quieter underwater operation, a critical element for avoiding detection. This design choice aligns with modern SSN designs globally, which prioritize stealth as a primary feature.
The Indian Navy is prioritizing the integration of several key technological advancements. These enhancements will focus on improving stealth capabilities (such as anechoic coatings and advanced propulsion systems), enhancing maneuverability, and boosting overall combat effectiveness to meet the demands of modern naval warfare. These include advanced sonar systems for detecting and tracking enemy vessels, as well as sophisticated weapons systems.
While some media reports have speculated that the submarines' submerged displacement (the weight of the water displaced by the submarine when fully underwater) would be around 10,000 tons, informed sources clarify that the actual displacement will be greater than 7,000 tons but less than 10,000 tons. This places the new SSNs in a substantial weight class, though the precise figure remains under development as the design process is ongoing.
Following the completion and approval of the design, which is anticipated by mid-2029, the actual construction of the first two submarines is expected to commence around 2030. This phase will involve extensive testing and sea trials before the submarines are formally commissioned into the Indian Navy.
