Overview
The Indian Navy is recruiting 260 Short Service Commission (SSC) Officers for various specialized branches. This is an excellent opportunity for qualified graduates and post-graduates to serve the nation and build a successful career in India’s maritime defense. SSC officers are commissioned officers who serve for a fixed period (initially 12 years, extendable by 2 more years) and can work across diverse fields including Executive, Pilot, Naval Air Operations, Engineering, Electrical, and other technical branches. Join India’s proud naval force and make a difference!
π’ Organization Details
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Organization | Indian Navy (Ministry of Defence, Government of India) |
| Recruitment Type | Short Service Commission (SSC) Officers |
| Number of Positions | 260 Officer Posts (Multiple Branches) |
| Service Type | Full-time Commissioned Officer Service |
| Location | All-India (Deployment as per service requirement) |
| Training Location | Indian Naval Academy (INA), Ezhimala, Kerala |
πΌ Total Vacancies
260 Positions Available across 10 specialized branches:
This is one of the largest naval recruitment drives, offering opportunities for various educational backgrounds and specializations. Multiple branches mean you have options to choose your career path!
π Post Type & Job Type
Post Type: Commissioned Officer (Short Service Commission – SSC)
Job Type: Full-Time, Regular Service with Government Security, Medical Benefits, Pension, and Career Growth Opportunities
Service Model: Fixed-term commission initially for 12 years (extendable up to maximum 14 years)
π² Application Mode
Online Only β All applications must be submitted through the official Indian Navy portal (joinindiannavy.gov.in). No offline applications accepted.
π Official Website
Visit: joinindiannavy.gov.in for complete details, application forms, official notifications, and additional information
π Important Dates
| Event | Date |
|---|---|
| Application Window Opens | 24 January 2026 |
| Last Date to Apply Online | 24 February 2026 |
| Course Commencing Date | January 2027 |
| Final Result Notification Deadline | 20 December 2026 |
Note: Ensure your application is submitted online before 24 February 2026. Late applications will NOT be accepted.
π Vacancy Details by Branch
All 260 positions are spread across 10 specialized branches. Here’s the breakdown:
| Branch / Cadre | Vacancies | Eligibility Gender | Special Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Executive (GS(X) & Hydro) | 76 (6 Hydro) | M & W | Max 10 women in GS(X), 1 in Hydro |
| Pilot | 25 | M & W | Max 3 women; CPL from DGCA eligible |
| Naval Air Operations (Observers) | 20 | M & W | Max 3 women; 60% in X & XII required |
| Air Traffic Control (ATC) | 18 | M & W | Open for all eligible candidates |
| Logistics | 10 | M & W | Max 1 woman; First Class/MBA required |
| Education | 7 | M & W | MSc/MA with 60% marks required |
| Engineering (GS) | 42 | M & W | Max 7 women; Specific streams only |
| Submarine Tech Engineering | 8 | Men Only | Specialized submarine work |
| Electrical (GS) | 38 | M & W | Max 7 women; Electrical/Electronics backgrounds |
| Submarine Tech Electrical | 8 | Men Only | Specialized submarine work |
Total: 260 Positions β
π Educational Qualifications
Qualifications vary by branch. Here are the main eligibility requirements:
Engineering/Technology Based Branches:
Executive Branch (GS(X) / Hydro Cadre)
- BE/ B.Tech in any discipline with minimum 60% marks
- Hydro Cadre: Same qualifications
Pilot
- BE/ B.Tech in any discipline with minimum 60% marks
- Additional requirement: 60% aggregate in Class X & XII, and minimum 60% in English (Class X or XII)
- Alternative: Valid CPL from DGCA (India) with valid status
Naval Air Operations Officer (Observers)
- BE/ B.Tech in any discipline with minimum 60% marks
- Additional requirement: 60% aggregate in Class X & XII, and minimum 60% in English (Class X or XII)
Air Traffic Controller (ATC)
- BE/ B.Tech in any discipline with minimum 60% marks
- Additional requirement: 60% aggregate in Class X & XII, and minimum 60% in English (Class X or XII)
Engineering Branch (General Service)
- BE/ B.Tech with minimum 60% marks in these specific streams:
- Marine Engineering
- Aerospace Engineering
- Metallurgy Engineering
- Instrumentation Engineering
- Automobiles Engineering
- Mechatronics Engineering
Submarine Tech Engineering
- BE/ B.Tech with minimum 60% marks in:
- Production Engineering
- Control Engineering
- Aeronautical Engineering
- Industrial Engineering & Management
- Instrumentation & Control
- Mechanical/Mechanical with Automation
Electrical Branch (General Service)
- BE/ B.Tech with minimum 60% marks in:
- Electrical Engineering
- Instrumentation
- Power Electronics
- Electronics Engineering
- Telecommunication
- Power Engineering
Submarine Tech Electrical
- BE/ B.Tech with minimum 60% marks in:
- Electrical & Electronics
- Electronics & Telecommunication
- Applied Electronics and Communication (AEC)
Management & Logistics Based Branches:
Logistics
- BE/ B.Tech in any discipline with First Class marks, OR
- MBA with First Class marks, OR
- B.Sc / B.Com / B.Sc(H) with First Class + PG Diploma in Finance/Logistics/Supply Chain Management/Material Management, OR
- MCA / M.Sc(H) with First Class
Education
- MSc/MA with minimum 60% marks in Mathematics/Operational Research (with Physics in BSc), OR
- MSc/MA with minimum 60% marks in Physics/Applied Physics/Meteorology/Oceanography/Atmospheric Sciences, OR
- BE/ B.Tech with minimum 60% marks in Mechanical/Production Engineering, OR
- BE/ B.Tech / M.Tech with minimum 60% marks in Computer Science Engineering/MCA, OR
- BE/ B.Tech with minimum 60% marks in Electrical/Electronics, OR
- M.E / M.Tech with minimum 60% marks in Electronics, Power Systems, Communications, OR
- M.E / M.Tech with minimum 60% marks in Thermal/Manufacturing/Meteorology/Oceanography
Important: Candidates applying for Education entry must have scored minimum 60% in Class X or XII
β³ Age Limit (as on 01 January 2027)
Age limits are specific to each branch:
| Branch | Birth Date Range | Age (Approx) |
|---|---|---|
| Executive (GS(X) / Hydro) | 02 Jan 2002 to 01 Jul 2007 | 19 to 25 years |
| Pilot | 02 Jan 2003 to 01 Jan 2008 | 19 to 24 years |
| Naval Air Operations (Observers) | 02 Jan 2003 to 01 Jan 2008 | 19 to 24 years |
| Air Traffic Control (ATC) | 02 Jan 2002 to 01 Jan 2006 | 21 to 24 years |
| Logistics | 02 Jan 2002 to 01 Jun 2007 | 19 to 25 years |
| Education | 02 Jan 2002 to 01 Jan 2006 | 21 to 24 years |
| Engineering (GS) | 02 Jan 2002 to 01 Jul 2007 | 19 to 25 years |
| Electrical (GS) | 02 Jan 2002 to 01 Jul 2007 | 19 to 25 years |
Special Case: Candidates with Government of India Merchant Navy Certificate of Competency can apply with relaxed age limits (born 02 Jan 1997 to 01 Jul 2007)
π° Monthly Salary & Allowances
The compensation is excellent for commissioned naval officers:
Initial Gross Salary: βΉ1,25,000 per month (approximately)
This includes basic pay and various allowances. In addition, you’ll receive:
Post-Training Allowances:
- Pilot / Naval Air Operations Officer (NAOO): Additional βΉ31,250 per month after successful training completion
- Submarine Personnel: Additional βΉ31,250 per month after successful submarine training completion
- Location-based Allowances: Depending on posting location
- Medical & Family Benefits: Comprehensive health coverage for self and dependents
- House Rent Allowance (HRA): As per naval regulations
- Other Standard Allowances: TA, DA, leave encashment, etc.
Service Benefits:
- Fixed Service Commission for 12 years (extendable by 2 more years)
- Government Pension on retirement
- Family Security and Insurance
- Leave and Medical facilities
- Educational support for children
π― Selection Process
The selection process is transparent and merit-based. Here’s what to expect:
Step 1: Online Application & Shortlisting
- Candidates submit online applications with supporting documents
- Applications shortlisted based on normalized marks from your qualifying degree
- For BE/B.Tech: Marks up to 5th semester considered (or till final year if still studying)
- For Post-Graduation: All semester marks considered (or pre-final year if still studying)
- Normalization formula ensures fairness across different universities and years (available on Navy website)
Step 2: SSB Interview Call
- Shortlisted candidates receive SSB (Service Selection Board) interview call via email/SMS
- Interview scheduled at designated SSB centers
- Interview venue cannot be changed (no flexibility)
- AC 3-tier rail fare reimbursed for first-time SSB appearance
- No compensation provided for injuries during physical tests
Step 3: SSB Interview Process
- Comprehensive assessment over 2-3 days
- Evaluates leadership qualities, officer attributes, and technical knowledge
- Medical examination conducted after SSB success
- Physical fitness tests conducted
- Submarine allowance (βΉ31,250/month) admissible after successful submarine training completion
Step 4: Medical Examination & Fitness
- SSB recommended candidates undergo medical examination at Navy-designated hospitals
- Height, weight, and other medical standards checked
- Medical center cannot be changed
- Specific medical standards apply to each branch (check website for details)
Step 5: Merit List & Final Selection
- Merit list prepared based on SSB marks
- Selection subject to medical clearance and vacancy availability
- Final result informed by 20 December 2026 (Navy deadline)
- Selected candidates must submit final degree completion proof by email
Step 6: Joining at Indian Naval Academy (INA)
- Training at INA Ezhimala, Kochi, Kerala
- Course commences January 2027
- 10-week initial officer training
- Must be unmarried at time of joining (marriage during training = discharge)
- Post-training commissioned as Sub Lieutenant
Important Notes:
- NCC ‘C’ Certificate Holders: Get 5% relaxation in SSB cutoff marks if holding Naval/Army/Air Wing ‘C’ certificate with ‘B’ Grade or above, minimum 2 years in Senior Division, and certificate not older than 01 Jan 2024
- No Backlog Allowed: Candidates with pending backlogs cannot appear for SSB
- Single Application Only: Submitting multiple applications results in cancellation
- Preference for other branches must be indicated; you won’t be considered for non-selected branches
π How to Apply
Follow these step-by-step instructions to apply online:
Step 1: Prepare Documents Before starting your application, gather and scan these documents in JPG/TIFF format:
- Passport-size color photograph (recent)
- Class X certificate (for date of birth proof)
- Class XII certificate
- All degree/diploma mark sheets (5th semester onwards for engineering, all semesters for others)
- CGPA conversion formula (if applicable)
- Merchant Navy certificates (if applicable)
- NCC ‘C’ certificate (if applicable)
- CPL certificate (if applicable for Pilot entry)
Step 2: Visit Official Website
- Go to: joinindiannavy.gov.in
- Look for “SSC Officer Recruitment 2026” notification
- Click on the application link
Step 3: Register Account
- Create a login account with valid email and mobile number
- These details are mandatory and must be kept active throughout selection
- Do NOT change email/mobile until selection is complete
Step 4: Fill Application Form
- Fill personal details exactly as per your Class X/XII certificate
- Select your preferred branch(es) carefully
- Indicate all branches you wish to be considered for
- You won’t be considered for non-selected branches
- Fill your mobile number and email correctly
Step 5: Upload Documents
- Scan all documents in JPG/TIFF format (ensure legible quality)
- Upload mark sheets, certificates, photographs
- Low-quality scans result in application rejection
- Attach proof of CGPA conversion if applicable
Step 6: Review & Submit
- Review all information for accuracy and completeness
- Once submitted, NO amendments are allowed
- Submission is finalβbe careful with information
- Take screenshot/printout for your records
Step 7: Download Application
- After submission, download and print your application
- Keep this printout to bring during SSB interview
- Print should have all your details and unique application ID
Step 8: Monitor Status
- Check email and SMS regularly for updates
- Check inbox AND spam folder periodically
- Navy will send SSB call letter via email/SMS to your registered number
Important Tips:
- Apply early; last-minute submissions may face technical issues
- Ensure perfect document qualityβblurry scans get rejected
- Double-check all information before submitting
- Keep your application number safe
- Follow up if you don’t receive call letter within expected timeframe
βοΈ Key Documents Required
For Online Application Submission:
Educational Documents (Scanned):
- Class X (Matriculation) certificate & mark sheet
- Class XII (Intermediate) certificate & mark sheet
- Bachelor’s degree certificate & complete mark sheets (all semesters)
- Master’s degree certificate & mark sheets (if applicable)
- Post-graduation diploma certificates (if applicable)
- CGPA to percentage conversion formula (if using CGPA system)
Professional Certificates (if applicable):
- Merchant Navy Certificate of Competency (for Executive/Engineering entries)
- CPL (Commercial Pilot License) from DGCA India (for Pilot entry)
- NCC ‘C’ Certificate (for NCC benefit eligibility)
Identification & Photographs:
- Passport-size color photograph (recent, 4×3 cm, with white background)
- Clear, legible scan in JPG/TIFF format
For SSB Interview (Bring Originals):
Educational Documents (Originals):
- Class X certificate & mark sheet (original)
- Class XII certificate & mark sheet (original)
- Bachelor’s degree certificate & all mark sheets (original)
- Master’s degree certificate & mark sheets (original)
- Any diploma or specialized certification (original)
Financial Documents:
- Photocopy of first page of bank passbook or cheque leaf
- Must show account number and IFSC code clearly
- Needed for TA reimbursement
Service Documents (if applicable):
- Merchant Navy Certificate of Competency (original)
- CPL certificate (original, if applying for Pilot)
- NCC ‘C’ Certificate (original, if claiming NCC benefit)
Personal Identification:
- Valid photo ID (Aadhaar, PAN, Driving License, or Passport)
- Two recent passport-size color photographs (backup)
For Final Joining (After Selection):
Degree Completion Proof:
- Final degree certificate must be submitted via email to: [contact address from official notification]
- Must be submitted BEFORE 20 December 2026
- Required before joining INA Ezhimala
Additional Requirements at INA:
- Health clearance certificate
- Character certificate from last employer/institution
- Police verification report
- Caste certificate (if applicable)
- Income certificate (if applicable for any concessions)
Important Notes:
- All documents must be in original or self-attested photocopies
- Scanned documents must be clear and legible
- Illegible documents result in application rejection
- False documentation leads to cancellation of candidature at any stage
- Bring 2 sets of all documents to SSB interview
- No compensation for injuries during SSB physical tests
π Important Links
| Resource | Link |
|---|---|
| Official Portal | www.joinindiannavy.gov.in |
| Recruitment Notification PDF | https://www.joinindiannavy.gov.in/files/Advertisement_SSC_Jan_2027.pdf |
| Normalization Formula | https://www.joinindiannavy.gov.in/files/normalisation.pdf |
| Apply Online | Direct link available on official portal |
| SSB Procedure Details | Available on joinindiannavy.gov.in (Read carefully!) |
β Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: When can I start applying? A: Applications open on 24 January 2026 and close on 24 February 2026. You can apply anytime during this 1-month window.
Q2: Can I apply for multiple branches? A: Yes! You can select multiple branches/cadres in your application. Indicate all branches you’re interested inβyou’ll be considered for all selected options.
Q3: Will I get notifications about SSB interview dates? A: Yes, once shortlisted, you’ll receive SSB call letter via email and SMS to your registered contact details. Check email regularly, including spam folder.
Q4: Is there any age relaxation? A: No general age relaxation mentioned. However, Merchant Navy certificate holders get extended age limits. Check official notification for specific details.
Q5: Can I change my SSB interview center? A: No, changing SSB center is NOT permissible under any circumstances. Plan accordingly.
Q6: What if I’m still completing my final year degree? A: You can still apply! For B.Tech, marks up to 5th semester will be considered. You must complete your degree by January 2027 before joining INA.
Q7: How much will I earn as a Sub Lieutenant? A: Initial gross salary is approximately βΉ1,25,000/month. Additional allowances apply based on branch and location. Pilot/NAOO get βΉ31,250 extra after training.
Q8: What’s the service commitment after joining? A: Initially 12 years of service. Can be extended by maximum 2 more years (total 14 years) based on performance, medical fitness, and service requirement.
Q9: Can married candidates apply? A: Only UNMARRIED candidates are eligible. If you marry during training, you’ll be discharged and must refund all training costs and salary received.
Q10: What happens if I fail SSB interview? A: You can reappear for future recruitment batches. Your candidature won’t be permanently barred.
Q11: Do I get TA/DA for SSB interview? A: AC 3-tier rail fare is reimbursed for first-time SSB appearance only. No daily allowance provided.
Q12: Is medical examination compulsory? A: Yes, after SSB success, medical examination is mandatory. Medical standards vary by branch. Check website for height/weight/other requirements.
Q13: What if I have backlogs in my degree? A: Candidates with pending backlogs will NOT be allowed to appear for SSB interview. All backlogs must be cleared before appearing.
Q14: Can I withdraw after selection? A: Yes, but you’ll be liable to refund full training cost and all salary/allowances received, plus interest on government loans.
Q15: What’s the difference between SSC and regular commission? A: SSC is a fixed-term commission (12+2 years) suitable for those wanting shorter service. Regular commission is permanent career option.
π― Why Choose Indian Navy as an SSC Officer?
β Serve the Nation β Contribute to India’s maritime security and defense β Excellent Salary β βΉ1,25,000/month with additional allowances and benefits β Career Stability β Government job with pension and job security β Leadership Opportunity β Command, lead, and train naval personnel β International Exposure β Naval deployments across the world β Professional Growth β Specialized training in your field β Family Security β Insurance, medical benefits, housing assistance β Proud Legacy β Join India’s distinguished naval force β Skill Development β Learn advanced military and technical skills β Post-Service Career β Strong background for second career options
β οΈ Important Reminders
π Application Window is LIMITED: 24 Jan β 24 Feb 2026 (Only 1 Month!)
π No Offline Applications: Online application only through joinindiannavy.gov.in
π Single Application Only: Multiple applications will result in cancellation
π Document Quality Matters: Illegible scanned documents = Application Rejection
π Check Eligibility First: Verify your branch eligibility before applying
π Keep Contact Details Updated: Active email and mobile essential throughout selection
π Marital Status: Must be unmarried throughout training and initial service
π Final Degree Required: Must complete degree by January 2027 to join INA
π Good Luck! Embark on Your Naval Officer Journey Today! π’
For complete and official information, visit www.joinindiannavy.gov.in
Disclaimer: This article is based on official Indian Navy recruitment notification. Please verify all details from the official website before applying. The Navy reserves the right to make changes to recruitment criteria, vacancies, or dates as required.



