India's Nuclear Attack Submarine Program to Reshape Indian Ocean Dynamics

India's naval ambitions are set to reach new depths with the planned development of a new fleet of nuclear attack submarines (SSNs). This ambitious program, reportedly initiated in 2015, signifies a significant leap forward in India's strategic outlook in the Indian Ocean Region (IOR).

Enhancing Deterrence and Versatility​

The new SSNs will be a crucial addition to India's existing nuclear triad, enhancing its overall deterrence capabilities in the region. These submarines, designed to operate discreetly and engage enemy vessels and submarines, will provide India with a more potent and versatile naval force.

The SSNs will be constructed at the secretive shipbuilding centre (SBC) in Visakhapatnam, where India's nuclear-powered ballistic missile submarines (SSBNs) are currently being developed.

Phased Development and Technological Advancements​

The SSN program is envisioned in phases, with the first phase focusing on developing three 6,000-ton submarines powered by a new indigenous nuclear reactor designed by the Bhabha Atomic Research Centre (BARC).

Design work is reportedly nearing completion, with project launch anticipated before 2027-28. The first submarine is expected to be launched for sea trials after 2035.

Phase II reportedly includes plans for an additional three submarines, while Phase III envisions even more advanced variants, potentially bringing the total fleet to nine.

Details on Phase III remain scarce, but it's expected to incorporate advanced technologies and potentially larger submarines exceeding 6,000 tons. The Navy's SSN design also allows for future expansion to accommodate even 8,000-ton submarines if necessary.

Strategic Implications and Challenges​

The development of nuclear attack submarines reflects India's growing concerns about China's expanding naval presence in the Indian Ocean.

The SSNs will enhance India's ability to monitor and counter Chinese submarine activity in the region, providing a significant boost to its maritime security.

However, the program also faces significant challenges, including technological hurdles, resource constraints, and the need for skilled personnel.

Despite the challenges, India's SSN program reflects its aspirations for a more potent and versatile navy. The program's success will depend on continued technological advancements, resource allocation, and strategic planning.

It will be interesting to see how this program evolves and contributes to India's evolving maritime posture in the IOR.

 

[NSR]

India should not wait for any country to assist in the design and development of nuclear SSBN and SSN submarines at all.

Indian Navy must rely on its Warship Design Bureau (WDB) and its present nuclear contractor L&T to keep building SSBNs and SSNs until they are all perfected.
It will happen eventually but India must give go ahead first.

 

[Ranjeet Singh]

BARC need to develop ship life support reactorsthat allow to fill fule for entire life of warship and SSN/SSBN/SSGN !

 

[binu boro]

Such a big country, 4th biggest economy still lagging behind in technology and depending on others. It's a real shame indeed. Don't know when will the decesion makers ever realise that their indecision is hurting India. Strong Economy is of no use if it doesn't have the technology to defend itself from a poor country like Pakistan... forget China.

 

[desigandu]

Too slow - we need them starting 2030

 

[Sandeep]

Such a big country, 4th biggest economy still lagging behind in technology and depending on others. It's a real shame indeed. Don't know when will the decesion makers ever realise that their indecision is hurting India. Strong Economy is of no use if it doesn't have the technology to defend itself from a poor country like Pakistan... forget China.

What indecision are you talking about? We are already very clear on which nuclear submarines we want and are working towards those goals.

 

[Sandeep]

India should not wait for any country to assist in the design and development of nuclear SSBN and SSN submarines at all.

Indian Navy must rely on its Warship Design Bureau (WDB) and its present nuclear contractor L&T to keep building SSBNs and SSNs until they are all perfected.
It will happen eventually but India must give go ahead first.

We aren’t waiting for any other country and no country will ever give up any critical nuclear technology to us. We have a clear plan and are working towards developing them.

 

[Sandeep]

India already has a nuclear submarine plan and they are working to develop it but they need to speed it up. They need at least 4 Arihant submarines with a larger hull for the last two vessels. After that then they need to start developing at least 6 of the next generation and larger submarines to hold more missiles and torpedoes. Also they need to start production for at least 6 nuclear attack submarines. Over time they might produce more submarines but we also have to keep modernising the technology, knowledge and experience.

At the same time we also need to strengthen our conventional submarines and increase the size. We need to quickly make a deal with Germany or Spain to produce 6 P75I submarines as this deal and negotiation has been going on for a while now. Any technology and critical parts we receive will help to speed up our own P76 to build at least 12 next generation submarines.