*New Delhi – August 22, 2025*
India is preparing to take a major leap in its strategic naval capabilitieswith the launch of its next-generation *S5 class nuclear-powered ballisticmissile submarines (SSBNs)*. According to defense sources, work on the S5program will begin once the ongoing *S4 series* submarines are completed,with construction expected to start by *2027*.
The upcoming S5 submarines will be significantly larger and more powerfulthan their predecessors, displacing around *13,500 tonnes*. Designed toenhance India’s second-strike capability, each S5 SSBN will be capable ofcarrying up to *16 submarine-launched ballistic missiles (SLBMs)*. Thesewill include the advanced *K-5 and K-6 missiles*, both expected to beequipped with *Multiple Independently Targetable Reentry Vehicles (MIRVs)*,allowing a single missile to strike multiple targets simultaneously.
The new class marks a substantial upgrade over India’s current *Arihant-classSSBNs*, which carry fewer missiles with shorter ranges. Defense expertsbelieve that the S5 class will give India the ability to patrol longer,strike deeper, and maintain a credible *nuclear deterrence* in theIndo-Pacific region.
With China rapidly modernizing its nuclear submarine fleet and Pakistanexpanding its missile program, India’s move is seen as part of a broaderstrategy to *strengthen maritime security and maintain strategic balance*in the region.
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The *Indian Navy* currently operates *INS Arihant* and is testingadditional Arihant-class submarines (S2, S3, and S4 variants). The S5class, however, is expected to be the true game-changer, putting Indiaamong the few nations capable of fielding *large SSBNs* comparable to thoseoperated by the United States, Russia, and China.
While official confirmation remains limited due to the sensitivity ofnuclear submarine programs, defense analysts suggest that the S5 projectreflects New Delhi’s long-term vision for a robust and survivable *sea-basednuclear deterrent*.