Indian Navy Invites Graduates for Short-Term Officer Jobs: 260 Vacancies Open

The Indian Navy has invited online applications for the Short Service Commission (SSC) January 2027 (ST-27) course , announcing 260 vacancies across Executive , Technical , and Education branches. The recruitment drive is open to unmarried men and women , with training scheduled at the Indian Naval Academy (INA), Ezhimala, Kerala . The online application window opens on January 24, 2026 , and closes on February 24, 2026 .

The Executive Branch includes entries such as General Service (GS/X) , Pilot , Naval Air Operations Officer (Observer) , Air Traffic Controller (ATC) , Logistics , and Education . The Technical Branch covers Engineering and Electrical streams, while Submarine Technical entries are available only for male candidates . Of the total vacancies, 156 posts are in the Executive Branch, 96 in Technical , and seven in Education , though officials note that the vacancies are tentative and subject to change based on training capacity.

Applicants must meet the prescribed eligibility criteria , including Indian nationality , unmarried status , and branch-specific age limits . Most entries require a BE/BTech degree with at least 60 per cent marks , while Education Branch applicants may apply with MSc, MA, MCA or MBA in notified subjects. Aviation entries additionally require minimum marks in Class X and XII , including English .

The application process is fully online through the official Join Indian Navy portal. Candidates are shortlisted primarily on the basis of academic performance , with no written examination for most SSC direct entries. Shortlisted candidates are called for a five-day SSB interview , comprising screening , psychological tests , group tasks , personal interview , and conference . Those recommended undergo a medical examination , after which a final merit list is prepared based on vacancies and medical fitness.

Selected candidates will be commissioned as Sub-Lieutenants and placed on probation for two years from the date of commissioning. During probation, officers undergo professional training and performance evaluation. On successful completion, they continue service under the Short Service Commission tenure , which is typically 10 years , extendable by four additional years subject to service requirements and performance.

In terms of remuneration, officers will be paid as per the 7th Pay Commission , starting at Level 10 of the defence pay matrix, with a basic pay of ₹56,100 per month . In addition, they are entitled to Military Service Pay (MSP) of ₹15,500 , along with Dearness Allowance , House Rent Allowance or naval accommodation , uniform allowance , and other service-specific allowances , including flying or submarine pay where applicable.

Defence officials advise aspirants to prepare thoroughly for the SSB selection process , ensure documents are ready in advance, and apply well before the deadline to avoid last-minute issues. With competitive pay, structured career progression and operational exposure, the SSC January 2027 entry offers a strong pathway for graduates seeking a career in the Indian Navy .