The Bhabha Atomic Research Centre (BARC) is embarking on an ambitious project to develop a 190-MW nuclear reactor, specifically designed for use in submarines. This significant advancement is poised to enhance India’s naval capabilities, especially in the realm of nuclear-powered submarines, reflecting the country’s growing strategic and defense needs.

As reported on the prominent website, spsnavalforces.com, this reactor will play a critical role in powering the upcoming P77 nuclear attack submarine (SSN) and the S-5 ballistic missile nuclear submarines (SSBN). The move to equip these submarines with advanced reactors is part of India’s broader initiative to bolster its maritime defense strategy, particularly through Project 75 Alpha, which aims to develop six nuclear attack submarines.

The development of India’s nuclear reactor comes at a time when China is also making strides in military technology, having built a land-based prototype N-reactor for a large surface warship. Recent satellite imagery has suggested that China is advancing towards the construction of its first nuclear-powered aircraft carrier, further intensifying regional competition.

Submarines can be categorized as nuclear attack submarines (SSNs) or ballistic missile submarines (SSBNs), each serving distinct roles in naval warfare. SSNs are engineered to hunt and engage enemy vessels, operating without nuclear missiles but capable of prolonged underwater missions due to their nuclear reactors. In contrast, SSBNs are armed with nuclear missiles, providing strategic deterrence and the ability to launch nuclear strikes while submerged.

Currently, India operates two N-ballistic missile submarines: the INS Arihant, commissioned in 2016, and the INS Arighaat, commissioned in August 2024. Both utilize an 83-MW pressurized, light-water reactor. A third SSBN, the Aridhman (S4), is undergoing sea trials and is expected to join the fleet by 2025. The Indian Navy’s latest addition, the fourth SSBN, named S4*, is a larger vessel that can accommodate multiple K-4 submarine-launched ballistic missiles (SLBMs).

The need for advanced submarines has grown in urgency due to strategic shifts in the Indo-Pacific region. India’s existing fleet of nuclear submarines is under pressure, particularly after the lease of a Russian Akula-class SSN ended in 2021, leaving a gap in capabilities. Although there are plans to lease another Akula-class submarine from Russia, the ongoing geopolitical tensions have complicated negotiations.

The INS Arihant is currently equipped with the K-15 SLBM, which has a range of 750 km, while the S4* possesses the more advanced K-4 missile, with a range of 3,500 km. This increase in missile range is vital for India’s strategic defense, as it enhances the nation’s ability to project power from its waters.

BARC’s role in developing an indigenous 190-MW reactor symbolizes a shift towards self-reliance in India’s defense technology, a goal that dates back to the foundation of the institute in 1954. BARC has been instrumental in the development of nuclear technology for both civilian and military applications, contributing to India’s nuclear submarine program significantly.

The construction of nuclear reactors for submarines is essential as it provides submarines with the ability to operate underwater for extended periods without surfacing for fuel, thus enhancing stealth and operational capabilities. The emphasis on developing a fully indigenous reactor reflects the Indian government’s focus on self-sufficiency in strategic capabilities amid rising tensions in the region.

India’s push to augment its nuclear submarine fleet is seen as a necessary step to maintain a credible second-strike capability—ensuring that the country can respond effectively to a nuclear attack. This capability serves as a deterrent against potential aggressors, assuring that any offensive action would result in severe retaliation.

To address the current limitations in its fleet, India is planning to secure the INS Chakra III, another Akula-class submarine from Russia, which is expected to bolster India’s SSN capabilities by 2025. Strengthening naval power is crucial for India, not only to safeguard its regional interests but also to participate actively in the geopolitical landscape of the Indo-Pacific, which has become a focal point of global security dynamics.

In summary, BARC’s initiative to construct an indigenous nuclear reactor for submarines marks a pivotal enhancement in India’s defense technology, bolstering the country’s capabilities in a competitive regional environment. As India continues to navigate complex security challenges, its advancements in nuclear-powered submarines are set to play a vital role in ensuring national and regional stability.

The Indian Navy is gearing up for the fourth iteration of its comprehensive Coastal Defence Exercise, ‘Sea Vigil-24’, set to take place on November 20 and 21. This large-scale initiative aims not only to fortify maritime security protocols but also to enhance awareness among coastal communities regarding their crucial role in maintaining safety along the coast.

One of the highlights of this exercise will be the active participation of various local stakeholders, including fishing communities, residents of coastal areas, and students from the National Cadet Corps (NCC) and Bharat Scouts and Guides. Their involvement is expected to amplify the exercise’s impact, thereby fostering a stronger sense of responsibility towards maritime security.

The upcoming phase of Sea Vigil-24 will focus on evaluating the readiness of vital coastal infrastructure. This includes inspecting Marine Police Outposts, ports, lighthouses, fishing harbors, and fish landing centers. By ensuring that these assets are adequately prepared, the exercise aims to reinforce India’s commitment to a secure and resilient coastal defense framework.

While individual coastal states and maritime security agencies regularly conduct security drills, Exercise Sea Vigil is unique in its national-level approach. It serves as a comprehensive evaluation of India’s maritime security capabilities. The exercise aims to offer a thorough assessment of the current preparedness of various maritime security agencies, spotlighting their strengths and weaknesses, which ultimately contributes to enhancing the nation’s maritime defense strategy.

In preparation for the forthcoming exercise, personnel from the Naval Officer-in-Charge (Odisha) have initiated a series of Community Interaction Programs (CIPs). These programs aim to bridge the gap between the Navy and local populations, fostering cooperation and understanding regarding coastal defense efforts.

Additionally, the Coastal Defence and Security Readiness Evaluation (CDSRE)—a precursor to the Sea Vigil exercise—has already been underway. This evaluation involved collaborative efforts among the Indian Navy, Indian Coast Guard, Marine Police, Customs, and other regional agencies tasked with coastal security across Odisha’s six coastal districts.

This year’s exercise is notable for its inclusive format, involving not just the Navy but also other branches of the Indian Armed Forces, including the Army and Air Force, alongside an expanded deployment of ships and aircraft. This multi-service cooperation is expected to elevate the operational tempo of the exercise to new heights.

With its extensive reach, Sea Vigil-24 will cover India’s sprawling 11,098 km coastline and its 2.4 million square km exclusive economic zone, involving six ministries and 21 agencies. Originally devised in 2018 as a response to the 26/11 Mumbai terror attacks, Sea Vigil was envisioned to evaluate and reinforce measures aimed at enhancing coastal defense.

By engaging all stakeholders from the fishing community to regional maritime authorities, the exercise seeks to ensure that every member of society plays a role in coastal security. As a precursor to the Theatre Level Readiness Operational Exercise (TROPEX), which is held biennially by the Indian Navy, Sea Vigil-24 is poised to be instrumental in bolstering India’s commitment to safeguarding its maritime borders and ensuring coordinated defense efforts among all involved parties.

The Coastal Defence and Security Readiness Evaluation phase has been ongoing since October 24 and has seen naval officers in charge of all coastal states and Union Territories—including Lakshadweep and Andaman and Nicobar Islands—conducting a meticulous audit of existing coastal defense and security infrastructures. This thorough scrutiny is expected to yield valuable insights into the nation’s preparedness and resilience in the face of evolving maritime challenges.

In a significant operation off the coast of Gujarat, the Indian Navy, in collaboration with the Narcotics Control Bureau (NCB) and the Gujarat Anti-Terrorism Squad (ATS), successfully seized 700 kilograms of methamphetamine, a highly potent synthetic drug. The operation was conducted near Porbandar, a coastal town known for its historical significance. Authorities arrested eight foreign nationals, identified as Iranian nationals, believed to be part of the drug trafficking network.

This drug bust is part of a larger ongoing effort by Indian law enforcement agencies to combat the rising tide of drug trafficking that has plagued coastal areas. The operation not only highlights the increasing collaboration among various agencies but also underscores the challenges posed by international drug syndicates operating in the region.

In a related note, Union Home Minister Amit Shah recently praised the efforts of security forces after another sizeable cocaine seizure in Delhi. NCB officials reported confiscating 82.53 kilograms of cocaine worth an estimated ₹900 crore (approximately $108 million). This compound operation underscores the government’s commitment to tackling drug-related crimes on multiple fronts and sends a strong message to traffickers.

The significance of these operations cannot be overstated. With an increasing demand for narcotics both within India and globally, drug cartels often attempt to exploit the country’s vast coastline for smuggling their products. The recent success of the NCB and the naval forces serves as a reminder of the critical role played by law enforcement in safeguarding public health and safety.

The involvement of foreign nationals in drug trafficking rings raises concerns about the extent of international drug networks operating within India and the country’s vulnerability as a transit point for various drugs. This incident highlights the need for continued vigilance and enhanced cooperation among international law enforcement agencies.

As investigations continue, authorities are expected to delve deeper into the operational methods of these syndicates, aiming to dismantle their networks to prevent future drug smuggling attempts. The ramifications of these drug seizures extend beyond legal actions, as they also significantly contribute to the ongoing dialogue regarding drug abuse and addiction, which remains a pressing social issue in India and beyond.

In a dramatic and life-saving operation, personnel from the Indian Navy intervened following a serious collision involving two speedboats on the Mahanadi river in Cuttack, resulting in critical injuries to a 25-year-old woman. The incident, which unfolded alarmingly close to the Balijatra ground, left the victim, identified as Nandini Das, with severe head injuries after being struck by a speedboat’s propeller during the crash.

On Friday, a Navy diving team, led by Lieutenant Avinash, was conducting reconnaissance in the river when they witnessed the tragic event. Recognizing the urgency of the situation, the team quickly mobilized to rescue Das, who was bleeding profusely from her injuries. Without hesitation, the Navy personnel jumped into action, managing to carry the critically injured woman approximately one kilometer to safety.

Despite the initial efforts to summon an ambulance, a delay prompted the Navy team to take matters into their own hands. They opted to transport Das to the hospital using an auto-rickshaw, ensuring she received medical attention as swiftly as possible. Upon arrival at the SCB Medical College and Hospital, she was immediately placed in the emergency ward, where she is reported to be currently undergoing treatment and is now out of danger.

As the situation unfolded, police officials arrived at the hospital along with Das’s family members, who were understandably anxious for her well-being. The quick thinking and decisive actions of the Navy personnel drew commendation from hospital authorities, who acknowledged their critical role in saving the young woman’s life. The incident not only highlights the bravery of the Navy divers but also serves as a reminder of the potential dangers present in recreational activities on waterways.

The Indian Navy is set to conduct its fourth edition of the coastal defense exercise, known as Sea Vigil-24, on November 20-21. This extensive exercise is designed to assess and enhance the preparedness of the country’s coastal defense systems. Commodore officials have emphasized the critical importance of this exercise in ensuring the security of India’s extensive coastlines, which span 7,516 kilometers.

Sea Vigil-24 is uniquely positioned as a pan-India initiative, reflecting a collaborative approach that integrates multiple stakeholders in coastal management and defense strategy. This includes participation from various state and central agencies, reaffirming the government’s commitment to a unified response against potential threats to coastal security.

During the exercise, scenarios simulating potential maritime threats will be deployed, allowing participants to evaluate their response mechanisms and coordination capabilities. As maritime security continues to be a significant concern, especially in the face of rising global and regional tensions, the Indian Navy aims to refine operational readiness through such drills.

In addition to the Navy, numerous agencies from the Ministry of Defence as well as local law enforcement and intelligence units will converge for the training sessions. The exercise will focus not only on naval elements but will also encompass joint operations with the Coast Guard, marine police, and relevant maritime stakeholders, thereby underscoring the necessity for a holistic approach to security along India’s maritime front.

The Sea Vigil series has been pivotal since its inception, acting as a crucial platform for testing the frameworks governing coastal defense. With growing complexities associated with maritime threats, including piracy, smuggling, and potential hostile incursions, drills like Sea Vigil-24 provide critical insights into the efficacy of India’s defense preparedness.

As the exercise approaches, the Navy is encouraging heightened awareness and readiness among all involved entities to ensure a seamless and effective conduct of operations during this crucial training period. The outcome of Sea Vigil-24 is expected to inform future strategies and policies, further fortifying India’s coastal security architecture and fostering a collaborative environment among the various defense and security agencies.

In a dramatic rescue operation, a woman’s life was saved after she was found bleeding profusely and in need of immediate medical assistance. Reports from Navy sources indicate that a dedicated team quickly sprang into action to transport her from a remote area to the nearest medical facility. The team carried the injured woman on their shoulders for nearly one kilometre, demonstrating remarkable commitment and urgency in their response.

Upon reaching the shore, they attempted to access an ambulance; however, with a delay in its arrival, the Navy personnel made the crucial decision to transport her via autorickshaw. This quick thinking proved vital, as the woman was subsequently rushed to SCB Medical College and Hospital, where she was admitted for emergency treatment.

Hospital authorities commended the naval team’s swift and effective actions, noting that their intervention had likely prevented a more severe outcome in what could have become a critical situation. This highlights the importance of rapid response in medical emergencies and the impact it can have on patient survival.

Following her arrival at the hospital, police officials promptly showed up with the woman’s family members, ensuring they were informed of her condition. As of now, she is receiving ongoing treatment in the emergency ward, with her family by her side, hoping for her recovery. The scenario underscores not only the dedication of the naval personnel but also the critical role of teamwork and quick decision-making in emergency medical situations.