India Advances Indigenous Nuclear Attack Submarine Program Under Project 77

Indian Navy is moving forward with its ambitious Project 77, aimed at developing a fleet of indigenous nuclear-powered attack submarines (SSNs), with the keel-laying of the first submarine expected to be completed by 2028 in Visakhapatnam.

The program is designed to provide the Indian Navy with six advanced SSNs, specifically tailored for anti-submarine warfare, carrier battle group escort missions, and extended maritime patrols. These submarines are expected to significantly enhance India’s underwater combat capabilities.

Approval for the initial phase of the project was granted by the Cabinet Committee on Security in October 2024, with an estimated allocation of around Rs.40,000 crore for the construction of the first two submarines.

Each submarine under Project 77 is projected to have a displacement of approximately 10,000 tons and will be capable of speeds exceeding 30 knots. Notably, between 70% to 95% of the components used in these submarines will be locally sourced, highlighting India’s push toward defense indigenization.

The first submarine is expected to begin sea trials by 2032–33, with formal commissioning anticipated around 2036. The construction of the initial two submarines is reportedly progressing at an accelerated pace.

Strategically, the program is expected to bolster India’s maritime security posture, particularly in response to increasing naval activity by People’s Liberation Army Navy in the Indian Ocean region. It will also help fill the operational gap left by the gradual retirement of conventional diesel-electric submarines.

Upon completion, Project 77 will place India among a select group of nations capable of independently designing and building nuclear-powered attack submarines, marking a significant milestone in its defense capabilities.