China Now Operates the Second Largest Nuclear Submarine Fleet

The United States remains the world’s leading operator of nuclear submarines, with a fleet of around 70 active vessels as of January 2026, including fast-attack, ballistic-missile, and guided-missile submarines. However, the most significant shift in the undersea balance of power is China’s rapid expansion, which has seen it recently overtake Russia to become the world’s second-largest operator of nuclear-powered submarines, with currently over 30 active boats according to recent estimates (Marine Insight), excluding next-generation hulls under construction.

China’s submarine fleet now includes advanced submersibles like the Type 093, known for their stealth and capability to launch anti-ship cruise missiles. The country is also developing the next-generation Type 096 ballistic missile submarine (SLBM), signaling a push for continuous and survivable nuclear deterrence patrols. Overall, China’s progress is marked by a shift from conventionally powered to nuclear-powered designs.

Russia, now in third place, continues to modernize its active fleet, though China has surpassed its numbers (slightly less than 30). The United Kingdom and France, currently maintain their respective operational fleets at around 10 vessels, while the world's sixth nuclear power at sea, India, is expanding its fleet. With the final Arihant-class ballistic missile submarine (SLBM) expected to enter service by 2027, India’s total (currently 2) will double. India’s progress also includes successful missile tests from its SLBM, underscoring its growing sea-based nuclear deterrent.

While the global nuclear submarine landscape is evolving rapidly, the U.S. maintains a numerical lead, but China’s production surge and Russia’s ongoing modernization, alongside new entrants like India and potentially North Korea (with reports of technological assistance from Russia), are setting the stage for a more contested undersea domain. Australia and Brazil are among the other countries planning to operate nuclear-powered submarines in the coming years. If the United States commits to the existing AUKUS agreement, Australia will start acquiring nuclear-powered submarines in 2032, while Brazil plans to deliver its first nuclear-powered submarine (resulting from a partnership with the French company Naval Group) between 2032 and 2034.