India's Navy is set to receive a significant upgrade. The Bhabha Atomic Research Centre (BARC) has successfully developed a cutting-edge 200 Megawatt Electric (MWe) nuclear reactor. This innovative reactor is designed to empower the S5 class nuclear submarines and the nuclear attack submarines under Project 77, enhancing their endurance significantly.
Currently, India's nuclear submarines INS Arihant and INS Arighat are powered by 83 MWe reactors. The third, INS Aridhaman, is undergoing trials. These limited-capacity reactors restrict submarines from extended underwater missions due to lower endurance. However, the revolutionary 200 MWe reactor will double the power, allowing submarines to stay submerged longer and undertake prolonged missions.
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Source: aajtak
The S5 class represents India's next-generation ballistic missile submarines (SSBNs), set to be twice the size of the Arihant class at a displacement of 13,000 tons. These submarines will carry 12-16 ICBM missiles (K-5 SLBM, with a range of 5000 km). Project 77 attack submarines (SSNs) are built to target enemy vessels.
This new reactor grants these submarines enhanced speed, range, and stealth capabilities. According to scientists, this upgrade is a strategic move to counter China's expanding maritime nuclear power. As China's fleet rapidly strengthens, India must also bolster its defense capabilities.
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India's nuclear triad consists of three components: ground-launched missiles (Army), air-based bombs (Air Force), and sea-based submarines (Navy). Submarines offer the ultimate security as they can execute 'second strike' capabilities hidden deep in the ocean, making them difficult for adversaries to target. The government focuses on Projects S5 and 77 to fortify India's nuclear prowess.
Source: aajtak
BARC Chairman A. K. Mohanty shared at the IAEA Conference in Vienna (2025) that BARC is also designing a 200 MWe light-water-based Indian Small Modular Reactor (SMR). Additionally, 555 MWe SMRs and high-temperature gas-cooled reactors for clean hydrogen production are being developed, contributing to India's energy self-reliance.
The 200 MWe reactor will transform the S5 submarines into some of the world's most formidable. This initiative is an integral part of self-reliant India's goal—BARC has achieved this feat through indigenous technology. It's vital to address the challenges posed by China. Soon, India's Navy will emerge even stronger at sea.
