India set to build two nuclear-powered attack submarines
PORTS & SHIPPING

India set to build two nuclear-powered attack submarines

India has approved plans to construct two new nuclear-powered attack submarines. The project is estimated to cost around Rs 450 billion.

As the country works to modernize its military in response to China's growing presence in the Indian Ocean region, the focus is on strengthening naval capabilities and enhancing domestic weapons manufacturing.

Officials stated that Prime Minister Narendra Modi's cabinet approved the construction of the first two submarines in a new class of six planned by the Indian Navy. However, they did not provide a timeline for their delivery. The officials, who requested anonymity, refrained from giving further details.

China, with the world's largest naval force comprising over 370 ships, has been a security concern for India since 2020, when clashes along their Himalayan border resulted in the deaths of 24 troops. Nuclear-powered attack submarines, which are faster, quieter, and capable of staying underwater longer than conventional diesel-powered ones, are considered some of the most powerful naval weapons due to their difficulty in detection.

Currently, only a few countries, including China, France, Russia, and the United States, manufacture these submarines. India, which previously leased two nuclear-powered submarines from Russia and has since returned them, is reportedly in discussions to lease another one.

The new submarines will be built at a government shipbuilding facility in Visakhapatnam, located in southern India. Construction major Larsen and Toubro is also expected to be part of the project, one of the sources mentioned.

These submarines will differ from the Arihant-class nuclear-powered submarines that India is currently constructing, which are capable of launching nuclear weapons. The second of the Arihant-class submarines was commissioned in August.

India has approved plans to construct two new nuclear-powered attack submarines. The project is estimated to cost around Rs 450 billion. As the country works to modernize its military in response to China's growing presence in the Indian Ocean region, the focus is on strengthening naval capabilities and enhancing domestic weapons manufacturing. Officials stated that Prime Minister Narendra Modi's cabinet approved the construction of the first two submarines in a new class of six planned by the Indian Navy. However, they did not provide a timeline for their delivery. The officials, who requested anonymity, refrained from giving further details. China, with the world's largest naval force comprising over 370 ships, has been a security concern for India since 2020, when clashes along their Himalayan border resulted in the deaths of 24 troops. Nuclear-powered attack submarines, which are faster, quieter, and capable of staying underwater longer than conventional diesel-powered ones, are considered some of the most powerful naval weapons due to their difficulty in detection. Currently, only a few countries, including China, France, Russia, and the United States, manufacture these submarines. India, which previously leased two nuclear-powered submarines from Russia and has since returned them, is reportedly in discussions to lease another one. The new submarines will be built at a government shipbuilding facility in Visakhapatnam, located in southern India. Construction major Larsen and Toubro is also expected to be part of the project, one of the sources mentioned. These submarines will differ from the Arihant-class nuclear-powered submarines that India is currently constructing, which are capable of launching nuclear weapons. The second of the Arihant-class submarines was commissioned in August.

Next Story
Infrastructure Transport

Metro Line 2B Phase 1 to Boost Realty in Mumbai’s Eastern Suburbs

Mumbai’s real estate sector is set for a major boost as Phase 1 of Metro Line 2B, between Mandale and Diamond Garden, nears completion. The Mumbai Metropolitan Region Development Authority (MMRDA) has confirmed that mandatory rectifications are done, and inspections by the Commissioner of Metro Railway Safety (CMRS) have been carried out. The 5.39-km stretch with five stations forms part of the larger DN Nagar–Mandale corridor, designed to ease congestion and improve east–west connectivity. Passenger operations are expected by December 2025, with the full line slated for 2027. ..

Next Story
Resources

WattPower wins Best Inverter award at Global Solar Expo 2025

WattPower, a leading renewable energy solutions provider, has won the award for “Best Inverter in the Utility Segment” at the Global Solar Expo 2025. The recognition underscores the company’s commitment to delivering reliable, high-performance and future-ready solar solutions for large-scale projects. At the forefront of utility-scale solar, WattPower manufactures advanced string inverters that directly feed power into the Indian grid. With robust technology, high-quality components and comprehensive product lifecycle support, its solutions stand among the most sophisticated in the ..

Next Story
Real Estate

Awfis delivers 67,000 sq. ft. innovation hub for eBay in Bengaluru

Awfis Space Solutions, India’s largest flexible workspace provider and the first publicly listed workspace solutions platform, has partnered with eBay to establish a 67,000 sq. ft. innovation hub at Embassy Tech Village, Bengaluru. The mandate covers design, build and management of the new office, which will act as a strategic hub supporting diverse functions and accelerating eBay’s AI-first commerce strategy. The centre will focus on artificial intelligence, engineering, product development and applied research, strengthening eBay’s growth in India. Embassy Tech Village, North Beng..

Advertisement

Subscribe to Our Newsletter

Get daily newsletters around different themes from Construction world.

STAY CONNECTED

Advertisement

Advertisement

Advertisement

Talk to us?