In a significant development for India’s naval capabilities, Indian Navy Chief Admiral Dinesh K Tripathi has emphasized the crucial role that nuclear-powered ballistic missile submarines (SSBNs) play in the country’s defense strategy. He noted that these submarines constitute the third key component of India’s nuclear triad, underlining their importance as deterrents against potential adversaries.
Currently, India operates two nuclear submarines—the INS Arihant and the recently commissioned INS Arighat. To bolster its naval strength further, India is developing a strategic naval base focused on nuclear submarines, known as Project INS Varsha. This facility, located near the coastal village of Rambilli in Andhra Pradesh, is projected to become fully operational by 2025-2026.
As regional tensions heighten, particularly with neighboring China—home to the largest navy in the world—India is advancing its nuclear submarine program to enhance its maritime defense capabilities. Admiral Tripathi confirmed that India plans to launch its first indigenous nuclear attack submarine by 2036, with a second expected to follow in two years. The estimated cost of constructing these initial submarines is around Rs 35,000 crore (approximately $4.5 billion).
The anticipated INS Varsha submarine base is expected to play a vital role in supporting both current and future submarines within the Indian Navy. Once operational, it will significantly boost India’s naval tactics and operations, especially within the Indian Ocean Region (IOR) and the contentious South China Sea. The Indian Navy aims to acquire a total of six nuclear attack submarines, with the Cabinet Committee on Security (CCS) approving the construction of the first two indigenous submarines in October 2024.
Describing the strategic initiative as a “game changer,” Admiral Tripathi highlighted that this project would not only elevate the operational capabilities of the Indian Navy but also strengthen the domestic defense manufacturing ecosystem. This aligns with India’s broader ‘Make in India’ initiative aimed at fostering self-reliance in defense production over the next five years.
Reflecting on the country’s growing technological prowess, Admiral Tripathi pointed out India’s capacity to design and manufacture intricate defense structures. The upcoming submarine project is expected to mirror the successful model implemented during the development of India’s nuclear-powered ballistic missile submarines.
India’s foray into developing indigenous nuclear-powered submarines started with the commissioning of the INS Arihant in August 2016, followed by the INS Arighat in August 2024. The third submarine, INS Aridhaman, is set to be commissioned by the end of 2025, marking a decisive step in enhancing India’s naval defense strategy and operational readiness.
