India is set to make a significant leap in its naval capabilities with the government’s recent approval for the development of its first indigenously designed nuclear attack submarines, expected to be operational by 2036. This initiative underscores a growing confidence in India’s ability to design and manufacture complex defense systems. Navy chief Admiral Dinesh K Tripathi commented on the plans, highlighting that the initial submarine will likely be delivered by 2036, with a subsequent vessel following within two years. The Indian Navy has outlined a requirement for a total of six such submarines.
Admiral Tripathi emphasized that the government’s approval reflects its belief in India’s domestic capacity to handle such advanced projects. He expressed optimism about the timeline for the induction of these submarines, expected between 2036 and 2037, and noted that the initiative would not only enhance India’s combat capabilities but also stimulate growth in ancillary industries related to the defense sector.
Currently, India operates nuclear-powered and nuclear-armed submarines under the Arihant class. However, the new attack submarines, designed for stealth operations and equipped with conventional weapons, are set to provide India with an advanced strategic edge. With this development, India is poised to join an exclusive group of nations, including the United States, Russia, and China, that possess similar capabilities.
The Cabinet Committee on Security has cleared a substantial budget of Rs 35,000 crores for this program, indicating that a significant portion of the construction work is likely to be entrusted to the private sector, further diversifying India’s defense manufacturing landscape.
Unlike conventional submarines, nuclear attack submarines possess the unique capability to remain submerged indefinitely, enhancing the Navy’s ability to monitor strategic maritime areas and deter potential adversaries. Historically, India has operated nuclear attack submarines on lease from Russia, but the forthcoming submarines will be completely designed and constructed in India without foreign aid. Reports suggest that all necessary technologies for building these submarines, including a sophisticated miniaturized nuclear reactor, are readily available within the country, minimizing reliance on foreign components.
In addition to the nuclear attack submarine program, Admiral Tripathi provided updates on other submarine modernization efforts. The acquisition process for six new submarines equipped with Air Independent Propulsion (AIP) technology is currently underway, with commercial proposals for the project yet to be reviewed. This initiative, known as P 75I, features keen competition between a consortium of Mazagon Dock Limited and TKMS, as well as offerings from L&T and Navantia.
Furthermore, the navy chief announced that plans to acquire three additional Kalvari-class submarines are progressing, with a contract expected to be finalized with Mazagon Dockyard Limited in the near future. The continuous expansion and modernization of India’s submarine fleet highlight the nation’s commitment to bolstering its maritime defense capabilities in a rapidly evolving strategic landscape.
