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SOURCE: RAUNAK KUNDE / NEWS BEAT / IDRW.ORG

The Indian Navy has secured approval from the Cabinet Committee on Security (CCS) for the construction of two new nuclear attack submarines, which will be part of a fleet of six nuclear-powered submarines expected to be operational from 2035 onwards. These first two submarines, with an estimated displacement of 6,000 tons, will boast 90% indigenous content, including a new 190MW Pressurized Water Reactor (PWR).

However, the Navy is still weighing its options for the propulsion system, particularly pump-jet propulsion, a cutting-edge technology it also envisions for its future S5 class nuclear-powered ballistic missile submarines (SSBNs).

Pump-jet propulsion, which offers greater stealth and efficiency compared to traditional propellers, has been under consideration by the Indian Navy for its nuclear attack submarine program. The Navy, alongside Indian private sector companies, has made significant strides in developing pump-jet technology, including scaled prototypes. However, the Navy acknowledges that it may take more time to perfect the technology at a full scale, as this is the first time such an endeavour is being undertaken in India.

In parallel, France has offered its proven pump-jet propulsion technology, currently deployed in its Suffren-class submarines and slated to be used in its next-generation SSBNs, the SNLE-3G class. While this technology is mature and established, it presents a dilemma for the Indian Navy. The Navy is exploring the option of using France’s pump-jet propulsion for the first two nuclear attack submarines to avoid potential delays, while locally developed systems could be used in the remaining four submarines. This hybrid approach would mitigate risks in terms of timelines and technical challenges while ensuring India continues its push for indigenization.

However, there are concerns about the implications of adopting French technology. Integrating France’s pump-jet propulsion would necessitate extensive involvement of French technicians and engineers during the design and development phases, granting them access to critical details about the submarine’s dimensions, electric motor systems, and other sensitive elements. This raises security concerns about exposing India’s nuclear submarine program to foreign entities, potentially compromising the integrity of the indigenous program.

The Indian Navy is expected to conduct a comprehensive technical review of both the local pump-jet propulsion system and the French offer before making a final decision. The review will weigh the benefits of using an already proven system against the desire to maintain strict control over India’s strategic technology and the potential for delays in developing a homegrown solution.

As India works towards modernizing its naval capabilities, the decision on propulsion will have significant long-term implications for the country’s nuclear submarine program. The indigenous development of pump-jet propulsion would represent a major technological achievement, enhancing India’s strategic autonomy. On the other hand, the adoption of a foreign solution could offer immediate reliability and reduce risks associated with developmental delays, but it might come at the cost of technological exposure and higher expenses.

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