Defence Minister Rajnath Singh is poised to commission India’s second nuclear-powered ballistic missile submarine (SSBN), INS Arighat (S-3), at a low-key ceremony in Visakhapatnam. This event marks a crucial enhancement of India’s nuclear deterrence and second-strike capability, solidifying the nation’s strategic defense posture in the Indo-Pacific region.
Event and Key Attendees
- The commissioning of INS Arighat will witness the presence of several high-ranking officials, underscoring the submarine’s importance to India’s defense strategy.
- Chief of Naval Staff Admiral Dinesh Tripathi, Vice Admiral Suraj Berry, who leads India’s Strategic Command, and top officials from the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) will attend the event.
- The ceremony, though conducted quietly, signifies a major step forward in India’s defense capabilities.
Strategic Impact: Strengthening the Nuclear Triad
- With the addition of INS Arighat, India now possesses two fully operational SSBNs, the first being INS Arihant (S-2).
- These submarines are pivotal to India’s nuclear triad, which comprises land-based missiles, aircraft-delivered nuclear weapons, and submarine-launched ballistic missiles (SLBMs).
- The ability of SSBNs to remain submerged for prolonged periods grants India a credible second-strike capability, ensuring a robust deterrent against potential nuclear threats.
- The deployment of INS Arighat, equipped with K-15 nuclear ballistic missiles with a range of 750 kilometers, enhances India’s strategic leverage, particularly in the Indo-Pacific region, where geopolitical tensions often run high.
- This submarine will patrol under the authority of India’s Strategic Command, contributing to the country’s long-term security and stability.
Technological Advancements: A Step Ahead
- INS Arighat represents a significant technological leap from its predecessor, INS Arihant. The newer submarine has incorporated advancements that address previous shortcomings, making it more capable and reliable.
- These enhancements ensure that India’s SSBN fleet remains at the cutting edge of submarine technology, capable of meeting the demands of modern warfare and strategic deterrence.
- Looking ahead, India plans to further expand its SSBN fleet with the commissioning of a third submarine, INS Aridaman (S-4), next year.
- Following this, a fourth SSBN, codenamed S-4*, is also expected to join the fleet, further bolstering India’s underwater nuclear capabilities.
Future Developments: Expanding Naval Power
- India’s commitment to strengthening its naval power extends beyond the SSBN program.
- The Indian Navy is preparing to launch a new class of larger submarines capable of carrying missiles with a range of 3,000 kilometers, significantly extending the reach and impact of India’s nuclear deterrence.
- These submarines will also feature additional missile tubes, enhancing their firepower.
- In addition to expanding its SSBN fleet, the Indian Navy is set to commission several new vessels this year.
- These include INS Surat, a guided missile stealth destroyer; INS Taragiri, a stealth guided missile frigate; and INS Vagsheer, a Kalvari-class attack submarine.
- These additions will significantly enhance the Indian Navy’s operational capabilities, ensuring it remains a formidable force in regional and global waters.
Conclusion: A Pivotal Moment for India’s Defense
- The commissioning of INS Arighat is a landmark event in India’s defense history, marking a significant upgrade to the nation’s strategic deterrence capabilities.
- As India continues to expand and modernize its naval fleet, the country is poised to play an increasingly assertive role in maintaining security and stability in the Indo-Pacific region and beyond.
