The Bhilai Steel Plant (BSP) under the Steel Authority of India Limited (SAIL) has achieved a notable breakthrough in the production of strategic defense materials. They have spearheaded the development of advanced steel tailored for the upcoming S5 class of nuclear-powered ballistic missile submarines (SSBNs). The S5-class submarine is part of India's ongoing efforts to enhance its naval capabilities and is currently in the developmental phase for deployment in the Indian Navy.
The newly developed steel is presently undergoing an extensive multi-year testing regimen to verify its compliance with the exacting performance standards essential for underwater operations. Upon successful completion of the testing phase and approval for deployment, it will be integrated into the construction of the S5 class SSBNs. These submarines are described as formidable underwater behemoths, anticipated to possess a submerged displacement exceeding 12,000 tons and stretching nearly 150 meters in length.
The S5 class submarines project was assessed by the Government of India in 2006, and production is expected to start by 2027. These submarines are part of India's strategic nuclear deterrent and are expected to play a crucial role in the country's defense strategy by providing a second-strike capability. The S5- class will contribute to the triad of India's nuclear deterrence, which comprises land-based missiles, strategic bombers, and SSBNs.
The next-generation steel developed is designed to meet the specific demands of modern submarine construction. Compared to existing materials, this new steel variant is likely to offer improved strength, corrosion resistance, and longevity, which are critical for the harsh conditions submarines encounter in deep-sea environments. The development process for this steel is more extensive than that for the steel used in the INS Vikrant aircraft carrier, indicating a significant advancement in quality and performance.
The deployment of this specialized steel is anticipated to bolster the structural robustness and security of the S5 class submarines, bolstering India's strategic defense capabilities and furthering the nation's aspiration for autonomy in defense technology. This endeavor aligns with India's strategic pursuit of self-sufficiency in defense capabilities. The steel manufactured by BSP will undergo rigorous scrutiny and evaluation by the Defence Metallurgical Research Laboratory (DMRL) and the Indian Navy prior to its incorporation into submarine construction.
The creation of this steel underscores SAIL-Bhilai's dedication to playing a significant role in vital defense endeavors, building on their prior achievements such as crafting special steel plates for the INS Vikrant aircraft carrier. The testing protocol for the submarine steel is reportedly tenfold more stringent compared to that of the steel utilized in INS Vikrant, underscoring the paramount importance and exacting standards essential for submarine fabrication. The indigenous development of submarines utilizing domestically produced materials not only bolsters national security but also fosters the expansion of domestic industries.