India to Launch Nuclear Submarine Hub in Andhra Pradesh by 2026, Eyes China’s Moves in Indian Ocean

India is set to operationalize a strategic nuclear submarine base near Rambilli, Andhra Pradesh, by 2026 to counter China’s growing influence in the Indian Ocean. Developed under Project Varsha, the base will allow stealth submarine operations. Parallel upgrades are ongoing at the Karwar base on the west coast. India will also commission **INS Aridhaman**, its third nuclear ballistic missile submarine, and plans to build six nuclear attack submarines under the ₹90,000 crore ATV project.

India is set to operationalize a major new naval base near Rambilli, about 50 km from Visakhapatnam, Andhra Pradesh, by 2026. Developed under Project Varsha, the base is designed to house nuclear-powered submarines with underground pens and tunnel systems, enabling discreet access to the Bay of Bengal and beyond, especially the Malacca Strait, without detection by satellites.

This facility, in the making for over a decade, marks a significant step in bolstering India’s eastern naval capabilities amid China’s growing presence in the Indian Ocean. Once commissioned, it will be expanded in phases, similar to the Karwar base on the west coast under Project Seabird, whose Phase-IIA will soon accommodate 32 warships.

Additionally, India plans to commission its third nuclear ballistic missile submarine, INS Aridhaman, this year. It will carry more K-4 missiles than its predecessors, with each missile having a range of up to 3,500 km. These advancements fall under the ₹90,000 crore Advanced Technology Vessel (ATV) project. India also aims to build six nuclear-powered attack submarines (SSNs), with two already approved at a cost of ₹40,000 crore.

Disclaimer
This summary is based on publicly available information and news reports. Timelines and specifications may change due to strategic or operational considerations.

source : times now