India’s naval capabilities have received a significant boost with the commissioning of its second nuclear-powered ballistic missile submarine, ‘INS Arighaat’. This strategic asset, belonging to the Arihant class, was inducted into the Indian Navy in a ceremony held in Visakhapatnam on August 29, 2024. The presence of Defence Minister Rajnath Singh at the ceremony underscored the importance of this milestone achievement for India’s national security.

The Arihant Class: A Nuclear Deterrent

The Arihant class submarines represent a significant step forward in India’s nuclear deterrence capabilities. They are indigenously designed and built under the strategic ‘Advanced Technology Vessel’ (ATV) program, reflecting India’s growing self-reliance in defense technology. The INS Arighaat joins its sister submarine, INS Arihant, in bolstering India’s nuclear triad, a concept that involves the delivery of nuclear weapons from land, air, and sea.

Key Features of the INS Arighaat:

• Nuclear Propulsion: This allows the submarine to remain submerged for extended durations, enhancing its strategic reach and survivability.
• Ballistic Missile Launch Capability: Equipped with K-15 and K-4 nuclear-capable ballistic missiles, the Arighaat can strike targets thousands of kilometers away.
• Advanced Sonar and Navigation Systems: Equipped with sophisticated sensors and navigation systems, the Arighaat can operate discreetly and effectively in challenging underwater environments.

Strengthening India’s Nuclear Deterrence

The induction of the INS Arighaat is a testament to India’s commitment to ensuring its strategic security in a complex geopolitical environment.

Significance of the Induction:

• Enhanced Deterrence: The presence of multiple nuclear-powered ballistic missile submarines significantly strengthens India’s deterrence capabilities, discouraging potential adversaries from aggressive actions.
• Strategic Balance: The addition of the INS Arighaat helps maintain a strategic balance in the region, ensuring that India has a credible deterrent against regional threats.
• Indigenously Developed: The Arighaat class submarines are a testament to India’s advanced shipbuilding capabilities, showcasing its ability to develop sophisticated defense technologies domestically.

Future of the Arihant Class

The Indian Navy’s future plans include expanding the Arihant class fleet. This expansion, coupled with continuous technological advancements, will further strengthen India’s nuclear deterrence posture and bolster its strategic security in the long run.

Take Away Points

The induction of the INS Arighaat is a momentous achievement for India’s defense capabilities, underscoring the country’s growing nuclear prowess and commitment to safeguarding its national interests. The submarine, along with its sister vessel, significantly enhances India’s nuclear deterrent capabilities, maintaining strategic stability in the region. Moreover, the development and deployment of the Arihant class submarines highlight India’s advancements in defense technology and its progress towards achieving self-reliance in this vital domain.