The Indian Atomic Research Institute, Bhabha Atomic Research Center (BARC) is developing an advanced reactor that will help in doubling the tolerance and operational capacity of the next generation of Indian Navy’s nuclear submarines. According to a report published in the English newspaper The Times of India, a BARC scientist has stated on the condition of keeping the name confidential that the reactor is being developed for S-5-class-driven ballistic missile submarines and nuclear-managed attackers. This step has come at a time when China is strengthening its marine nuclear anti -prohibition system.
According to the report, the capacity of this new reactor will be around 200 MW Electric (MWE), while the current two nuclear submarines, INS Arihant and INS Arigahat have a reactor capacity of only 83 MW. Let us tell you that the third submarine of this class, INS Aridhaman is currently going through a round of tests. It is being told that with the arrival of this advanced reactor, new submarines will get long -term operations and the ability to remain submerged for longer. If seen, it is strategically very important as nuclear submarines provide a permanent and mobile basis of India’s nuclear triputi, which ensure the capacity of another attack. Let us tell you that the other two branches of nuclear triputi are army and air force.
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Additionally, the Barc is also developing light water based 200 mWe India small modular reactor (SMR), 555 MWE SMR and high temperature gas cooled reactor, aimed at clean hydrogen production through thermochemical plant. This information was shared by AK Mohanty, Chairman of the Atomic Energy Commission, at the 69th conference of IAEA held in Vienna.
If seen, this new reactor will give Indian submarines the ability to hide in the sea for a long time and to work vigilance on the opposing banks. This will help maintain strategic balance against China and other possible rivals. Along with this, due to being an important part of the atomic triputi, these submarines will make India’s nuclear detection (nuclear prevention) power more reliable. India can give a reliable answer after any unexpected attack. This step of India is a sign of increase in indigenous technology and energy security. It not only increases naval power but also shows India’s expertise in nuclear power and SMR techniques. In addition, hydrogen production by high temperature gas cooled reactor will be helpful in India’s energy diversification and environmental goals.
However, the project is an important step to take India’s maritime power to new heights as well as maintain regional strategic balance and to ensure self-sufficiency in indigenous nuclear technology. For the Indian Navy, it will be a symbol of security, preventive power and technical superiority in the coming years.