SOURCE: RAUNAK KUNDE / NEWS BEAT / IDRW.ORG
In a world exclusive by idrw.org, insider sources reveal that the Indian Navy’s next-generation S5 Class of nuclear-powered ballistic missile submarines (SSBNs), which will boast a submerged displacement of over 13,000 tons, might be equipped with nuclear reactors more powerful than previously reported.
The Bhabha Atomic Research Centre (BARC) has been at the forefront of developing a 190MW pressurized light-water reactor (PWR) fueled with enriched uranium to power these submarines. However, there are indications that this might not meet the full spectrum of future operational requirements for the S5 Class.
The 190MW reactor is currently in an advanced stage of development, intended to provide the necessary power for the initial batch of S5 SSBNs. This reactor is deemed sufficient for the slow, stealthy operations characteristic of SSBNs.
Sources close to idrw.org have disclosed that the Indian Navy, in collaboration with BARC, is contemplating the development of an even more powerful reactor. This step is driven by the need to support next-generation weapons systems and advanced technologies that the S5 Class might incorporate, potentially requiring more electrical power.
While the first batch of S5 submarines is expected to use the 190MW reactor, subsequent batches could see upgrades to a more robust nuclear power plant if the new reactor design becomes available.
The Navy plans to develop the S5 Class in batches of two, with each batch featuring incremental changes and upgrades. This strategy allows for the integration of new technologies and reactor improvements over time. Each batch of the S5 Class is expected to differ from its predecessor, ensuring that the fleet remains at the cutting edge of naval technology. This approach could include adopting a new, more powerful reactor in later batches.
Interestingly, the same 190MW reactor design, with modifications, is planned for use in India’s nuclear attack submarines (SSNs) under development. These SSNs, with a submerged displacement of around 8,000 tons, require a reactor tuned for speed and agility rather than just endurance, showcasing the versatility and adaptability of BARC’s nuclear technology.
While discussions are still being held about how much improvement might be required indications are that it might cross the 200MW mark while technically it is feasible it also will depend if the submarines internally will be able to carry a bigger reactor without major structural changes due to which any new reactor will take time to mature and might feature in second or even in third batch of S5 Class submarine post 2040.
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