Defence Minister Rajnath Singh is set to commission India’s second nuclear-powered ballistic missile submarine (SSBN), INS Arighat (S-3), at a quiet event in Visakhapatnam, marking a significant boost to India’s nuclear deterrence and second-strike capability. This submarine, armed with 750-km range K-15 nuclear ballistic missiles, will patrol the Indo-Pacific under India’s strategic command.
Event and Attendees
The commissioning will be attended by Chief of Naval Staff Admiral Dinesh Tripathi, Vice Admiral Suraj Berry (head of Indian Strategic Command), and top DRDO officials.
Strategic Impact
With the commissioning of INS Arighat, India now has two SSBNs – INS Arihant (S-2) and INS Arighat – reinforcing its nuclear triad. The SSBNs, capable of remaining underwater for extended periods, provide significant strategic leverage and deterrence in the Indo-Pacific region.
Technological Advancements
INS Arighat, an advanced version of INS Arihant, has addressed previous technological gaps. Following this, India plans to commission a third SSBN, INS Aridaman (S4), next year, with a fourth, codenamed S-4*, to follow.
Future Developments
India will soon launch a new class of larger submarines capable of carrying 3,000km range nuclear ballistic missiles with additional missile tubes. The Indian Navy is also set to bolster its fleet with the commissioning of INS Surat (guided missile stealth destroyer), INS Taragiri (stealth guided missile frigate), and INS Vagsheer (Kalveri class attack submarine), with orders for additional submarines expected this year.
