New Delhi, India – India is significantly enhancing its naval capabilities with the development of a robust nuclear submarine fleet, positioning itself as a formidable maritime power in the Indian Ocean Region (IOR). The commissioning of a new naval base in Andhra Pradesh and the induction of advanced nuclear-powered submarines underscore India’s strategic response to regional security challenges, particularly China’s growing naval presence.
A New Naval Hub at Rambilli
By 2026, India plans to commission a state-of-the-art naval base near Rambilli, approximately 50 kilometers from the Eastern Naval Command in Visakhapatnam. Part of the classified Project Varsha, this high-security facility will feature underground pens and tunnels designed to house nuclear-powered ballistic missile submarines (SSBNs). The base’s stealth infrastructure will allow submarines to access the Bay of Bengal undetected, enhancing India’s second-strike capability—a critical component of its nuclear triad.
The Rambilli base, which has been under construction for over a decade, represents a significant technological and strategic achievement. It will support India’s growing fleet of nuclear submarines, including the recently commissioned INS Arighat and the soon-to-be-inducted INS Aridhaman, the third SSBN in the Arihant-class series.
Must Read: Explainer: How Nuclear Submarines Work
Expanding the Nuclear Submarine Fleet
India currently operates two nuclear-powered ballistic missile submarines: INS Arihant and INS Arighat. The INS Aridhaman, with a displacement of 7,000 tonnes and capable of carrying K-4 missiles with a 3,500 km range, is expected to be commissioned by the end of 2025. This addition will further strengthen India’s sea-based nuclear deterrence.
In a major boost to its naval strategy, the Cabinet Committee on Security approved the construction of two 9,800-tonne nuclear-powered attack submarines (SSNs) in October 2024, with a budget of ₹40,000 crore. Plans are also underway to build six additional SSNs and advanced SSBNs with more powerful 190 MW reactors, a significant upgrade from the existing 83 MW reactors. These developments aim to enhance India’s conventional warfare capabilities and maritime dominance.
India’s collaboration with Russia continues, with a deal signed in 2019 to lease an Akula-class nuclear submarine, Chakra-III, expected to be delivered by 2025. This lease will provide operational experience while India builds its indigenous fleet.
Strategic Imperatives and Regional Dynamics
The expansion of India’s nuclear submarine capabilities comes amid increasing Chinese naval activity in the IOR. China operates six nuclear-powered ballistic missile submarines, six nuclear-powered attack submarines, and 48 conventional submarines with advanced Air-Independent Propulsion (AIP) technology. The new Rambilli base and India’s growing submarine fleet are seen as a direct counter to China’s maritime ambitions.
Pakistan, supported by China and Turkey, is also enhancing its naval power with eight Hangor-class submarines equipped with AIP technology. India’s investments in nuclear submarines and naval infrastructure, including upgrades at the Karwar base under Project Seabird, signal a dual-coast strategy to secure its maritime flanks.
Must Read: THAAD Air Defense System: How It Works in 2025
Technological and Diplomatic Milestones
India’s nuclear submarine program, initiated with the Advanced Technology Vessel (ATV) project in 1983, has achieved significant milestones. The INS Arighat, commissioned in August 2024, features indigenous systems conceptualized and manufactured by Indian scientists and industry, showcasing the country’s growing self-reliance in defense manufacturing. A successful test of the K-4 submarine-launched ballistic missile (SLBM) in November 2024 further underscored India’s technological prowess.
Diplomatically, India is exploring partnerships to bolster its nuclear capabilities. Discussions with France for potential assistance in SSN development and a recent agreement with the U.S. to jointly design and build nuclear reactors highlight India’s openness to international collaboration. These efforts align with Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s “Make in India” initiative, which emphasizes domestic manufacturing and technological advancement.
Looking Ahead
As India prepares to induct INS Aridhaman and commission the Rambilli base, its nuclear submarine program is poised to transform the strategic balance in the Indo-Pacific. The Navy Chief, Admiral Dinesh K Tripathi, noted that India is among a select group of nations capable of operating both SSBNs and aircraft carriers independently, a testament to its growing maritime power.
With plans for additional submarines and advanced reactors, India is not only reinforcing its nuclear deterrence but also asserting its role as a major maritime power. The Interview Times will continue to monitor these developments as India navigates the complex geopolitical dynamics of the region.