India’s second nuclear sub

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Last Updated01/09/2024

India’s second nuclear-powered ballistic missile submarine of the Arihant class, significantly boosts India’s nuclear deterrence capabilities, and strengthens its nuclear triad

India has commissioned its second nuclear-powered submarine, INS Arighaat, into the Indian Navy at Visakhapatnam.
This development marks a significant enhancement in India's maritime and nuclear capabilities, reinforcing the nation's nuclear triad and deterrence strategy.

Nuclear Triad Strengthening: The 6,000-tonne INS Arighaat, following its predecessor INS Arihant, plays a crucial role in India's nuclear triad.
The triad ensures India’s capability to launch nuclear weapons from air, land, and sea, placing the country among an elite group of nations, including the U.S., Russia, China, and France.
Advanced Technology: INS Arighaat is technologically superior to INS Arihant, incorporating advanced design, materials, and indigenous systems developed by Indian scientists and engineers.
It is equipped with K-15 missiles, which have a range exceeding 700 km, and is powered by an 83 MW pressurized light-water nuclear reactor, enabling prolonged underwater operations.

Nuclear Deterrence: Defence Minister Rajnath Singh emphasized that INS Arighaat would significantly bolster India's nuclear deterrence and contribute to strategic stability in the region. The submarine's stealth capabilities make it a potent tool for ensuring a second-strike capability under India’s "No First Use" nuclear policy.
Contribution to Security: The Arighaat's commissioning enhances the Indian Navy's ability to safeguard the nation's maritime interests and maintain a strategic balance in the Indian Ocean region.

Global Context: India’s nuclear submarine program, which began over three decades ago, has now positioned the country alongside global powers with similar capabilities.
The United States has 14 Ohio-class SSBNs, while China operates 12 nuclear submarines, including six nuclear-powered attack submarines.
Fleet Expansion: In addition to INS Arighaat, two larger nuclear ballistic submarines (SSBNs) are currently being built in India. These submarines, displacing around 7,000 tonnes each, will further enhance the Navy’s capabilities once commissioned.

Conventional Submarines: The Indian Navy operates 16 conventional submarines, including Kilo (Sindhughosh) class, Shishumar class, and French Scorpène (Kalvari) class attack submarines.
These vessels are essential for the Navy’s operational readiness, although around 30% of the fleet is typically under refit.
Maintenance and Life Extension: The Navy has implemented medium refit and life certification for its aging submarines to extend their operational lives until new vessels are ready. This approach ensures that India maintains a credible and capable underwater force.