Archive · 24 Sep 2025
India's Nuclear Submarines to Get Advanced Reactor Upgrade
India is building new, improved nuclear reactors for its submarines.
These reactors use enriched uranium and are much more powerful than the current ones.
This will let the submarines stay at sea for longer periods.
The new reactors will be fitted on India’s upcoming S5 Nuclear Submarine and planned Nuclear Attack Submarines.
This upgrade is to help India compete with China's growing submarine fleet, which is expected to be the world's largest by 2030.
Nuclear submarines are part of India's nuclear triad, ensuring a strong defense.
The BARC is also working on other reactors, including a 555 MWe and a High Temperature Gas Cooled Reactor.
BARC is developing a new 200 MWe reactor for India's next-generation nuclear submarines.
The new reactor will be used in the S5 and Project 77 submarines.
The reactor uses enriched uranium fuel to increase power and efficiency.
The upgrade is designed to counter China's expanding submarine fleet.
This enhances India's nuclear deterrent capabilities with a nuclear triad.
- Who
- Bhabha Atomic Research Centre (BARC)
- What
- Is building a new 200 MWe reactor for India's next-generation nuclear submarines.
- When
- Reported September 21st
- Where
- Mumbai, India
- Why
- To enhance submarine endurance and match China's growing naval power.
- Reactor Power Output
- 200 MWe
- Reactor Type
- Pressurized light-water
- Fuel
- Enriched uranium
- Target Submarines
- S5, Project 77
- Current Submarine Reactors
- 83 MWe
- First Design Assistance
- Russia
- Current Trials
- INS Aridhaman