INS Varsha

INS Varsha Latest News

India is preparing to operationalise INS Varsha, a dedicated naval base for nuclear-powered submarines, on the eastern coast near Rambilli in Andhra Pradesh by 2026.

About INS Varsha

• It is a strategically designed submarine base to house India's nuclear-powered submarines, both ballistic missile (SSBNs) and attack (SSNs) variants.
• The high-security facility, part of the long-planned Project Varsha, is designed to support India’s growing fleet of nuclear submarines and enhance the survivability of its sea-based deterrent.
• The new base will be located near the coastal village of Rambilli, approximately 50 kilometers from Eastern Naval Command headquarters in Visakhapatnam, Andhra Pradesh.
• It will feature underground pens and tunnels to house nuclear submarines, ensuring stealthy operations in the Bay of Bengal.
• The project covers an area of 20 square kilometers and will accommodate at least 10 nuclear submarines.
• Similar to China’s extensive nuclear submarine base at Hainan Island, the water depth at Rambilli will enable submarines to enter and exit the base without being spotted by satellites. 
• This level of stealth is vital for SSBNs (nuclear-powered ballistic missile submarines), which need to remain hidden during their long patrols, often carrying nuclear-armed missiles.

INS Varsha FAQs

Q1. What is the primary purpose of INS Varsha?

Ans. To house India's nuclear-powered submarines

Q2. Where is INS Varsha located?

Ans. Near the coastal village of Rambilli, Andhra Pradesh

Q3. What type of submarines will be housed at INS Varsha?

Ans. Nuclear-powered submarines

Source: SWARAJ