### A game-changer for both merchant vessels and a new generation of submarines, India's compact nuclear power units promise unprecedented endurance and strategic advantage. **NEW DELHI, India, October 20, 2025** — Imagine a ship that can sail the seas for months, even years, without ever stopping to refuel. That futuristic vision is rapidly becoming a reality for India, as the nation’s top scientists are developing powerful 200-megawatt (MW) nuclear reactors designed to power everything from commercial cargo ships to the Indian Navy's formidable new submarines. This groundbreaking move marks a significant leap in India's quest for energy independence and maritime dominance. Th^[1][2][3][4]e Bhabha Atomic Research Centre (BARC), India's premier nuclear research facility, is at the heart of this ambitious project. They are not only working on these potent 200 MW units but also smaller 55 MW reactors, collectively known as Bharat Small Modular Reactors (BSMRs). The^{[1][3][5][6][4]}se compact powerhouses are set to redefine how India powers its future, both on land and at sea. ##^[1][3][5]# The Full Story For years, India has been quietly building its expertise in nuclear propulsion, a complex technology mastered by only a handful of nations. This new development stems from that deep well of knowledge. While officials initially hinted at these 200 MW reactors being ideal for energy-hungry industries like cement manufacturing or powering commercial merchant vessels, the whispers have grown louder and clearer: these powerful new reactors are also destined for India's next-generation naval fleet. Th^{[1][2][3][5][6][4][7]}is advanced technology is a significant upgrade from the 83 MW reactors currently powering India's existing nuclear submarines, the INS Arihant and INS Arighaat. A t^[1][7][8]hird submarine, the INS Aridhaman, is also undergoing trials with the same 83 MW reactor. But^[1][4] here's the thing: those older reactors, while effective, limit how long submarines can stay submerged and affect their overall mission endurance. Th^[7][8]e new 200 MW (or in some naval contexts, 190 MW) pressurized light-water reactors, fueled by enriched uranium, are designed to double the capabilities of India's naval vessels. Thi^[8][9][10]s means submarines will be able to operate underwater for extended periods without needing to surface for refueling, dramatically enhancing their stealth, speed, and operational range. Ima^[7][8][9]gine the strategic advantage of a submarine that can patrol vast ocean stretches, undetected, for months on end. What's more, these advanced reactors are planned for two critical upcoming naval programs: the S5-class ballistic missile submarines (SSBNs) and the Project 77 nuclear attack submarines (SSNs). The^{[7][11][12][13][8][9][14][15][10]} S5-class submarines are expected to be significantly larger than the Arihant class, potentially displacing 13,000 tons and carrying more missiles. The^[7] Project 77 SSNs, also described as colossal "sea monsters" with displacements up to 10,000 tons, are designed for devastating land-attack missions. The^[13][14] Cabinet Committee on Security (CCS) recently approved the construction of two Project 77 SSNs in October 2024, with the first expected to be ready by 2036-37. ##^{[13][16][14][15]}# What This Means This development isn't just about bigger numbers; it's about a fundamental shift in India's maritime strategy. For the Indian Navy, these powerful reactors mean greater endurance and operational flexibility. Submarines equipped with 200 MW reactors can travel faster and stay at sea longer, reducing their need to return to port for refueling. Thi^[7][8][9]s boosts their operational availability, allowing them to spend more time on critical missions. Fo^[9]r commercial shipping, the potential is equally transformative. Nuclear-powered merchant ships would drastically cut down on fuel costs and emissions, offering a cleaner, more efficient way to transport goods across the globe. This could make India a leader in green shipping technology. **Key Points:** * India is developing compact 200 MW (and 55 MW) Bharat Small Modular Reactors (BSMRs). * ^{[1][3][5][6][4]} The Bhabha Atomic Research Centre (BARC) is spearheading this reactor development. * ^{[1][2][3][5][6][4][7]} These reactors are intended for both commercial ships and next-generation naval vessels. * ^{[1][2][3][4][7]} The new 200 MW reactors will power the upcoming S5-class ballistic missile submarines (SSBNs) and Project 77 nuclear attack submarines (SSNs). * ^{[7][11][12][13][8][9][10]} They represent a significant upgrade from the 83 MW reactors used in current Arihant-class submarines. * ^[1][7][8] The improved reactors will enhance endurance, speed, and stealth for submarines, reducing refueling needs. ##^[7][8][9]# The Bigger Picture This push for advanced nuclear propulsion is a crucial part of India's "Atmanirbhar Bharat" (self-reliant India) initiative. It ^[9][10]reflects a strategic imperative to bolster the nation's defense capabilities and secure its interests, particularly in the Indo-Pacific region where China's naval presence is rapidly expanding. By ^{[7][12][16][9][14]}developing these powerful indigenous reactors, India aims to field naval platforms that can match or exceed those of other regional powers. Th^[9]e government is also paving the way for greater private sector involvement in the civil nuclear energy sector. Plans are underway to amend the Atomic Energy Act (AEA) of 1962, which could allow private companies to operate nuclear power plants and even manage parts of the nuclear fuel cycle. Thi^[1][5][6][4]s policy shift could accelerate India's nuclear energy expansion, aiming for an ambitious target of 100 gigawatts (GW) of nuclear power capacity by 2047, a significant jump from the current 8.8 GW. ##^[4]# What Happens Next? The development of the 190 MW naval reactor design has been ongoing for nearly eight years and is reportedly ready for deployment in upcoming submarines. Wit^[11]h the Cabinet Committee on Security having cleared Project 77 SSNs in October 2024, the focus will now shift to the construction phase, with the first attack submarine expected to launch in about 10-12 years. We ^[13][16][14]can expect continued updates on trials and integration of these new reactors into both naval and potential commercial applications. As India moves forward, the world will be watching to see how these powerful, compact nuclear reactors reshape not only its own energy and defense landscape but also potentially influence global shipping and naval strategies. The journey toward a more self-reliant and powerfully propelled future is well underway.

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