INS Varsha Set to Strengthen India’s Nuclear-Submarine Fleet

The Indian Navy is preparing to commission INS Varsha, a new nuclear-submarine base at Rambilli in Anakapalli district. Officials expect the facility to become fully operational by 2026. The base will add significant strength to India’s maritime strategy.

The project costs more than Rs 30,000 crore. It supports India’s growing fleet of nuclear-powered submarines. These include both ballistic-missile and attack submarines. INS Varsha will serve as the Navy’s main hub for undersea missions and long patrols.

The Naval Dockyard in Visakhapatnam currently handles all submarine activity. However, the number of warships at the port has increased from 16 to over 45. This rise has strained operations. INS Varsha, located 50 kilometres south of Visakhapatnam, will ease that pressure. It will also improve safety by separating nuclear submarines from regular harbour traffic.

The base features strong security measures. Engineers built underground pens, reinforced tunnels and hardened structures. These protect submarines from satellite and aerial tracking. The layout follows models used by major global navies. The Navy also set aside 845 acres nearby for a Bhabha Atomic Research Centre unit. This unit will manage reactor and propulsion maintenance and help reduce refit time.

Phase I includes submarine pens, tunnels, breakwaters and essential buildings. Later phases will add berths, jetties and stronger logistics. This mirrors the development approach used at the Karwar naval base.

INS Varsha plays a key role in India’s sea-based nuclear deterrent. Its location on the Bay of Bengal offers safe access to deep-water patrol routes. As the project nears completion, the Navy expects the base to boost long-term readiness and regional security.