The Indian Navy has officially commissioned its second nuclear-powered ballistic missile submarine, INS Arighat in a significant boost to India naval prowess and strategic nuclear deterrence. The commissioning ceremony took place on Thursday at Visakhapatnam in Andhra Pradesh, marking a major milestone in India’s defense capabilities.
A Strategic Asset for India’s Defense
INS Arighat is an upgraded version of India’s first SSBN (Ship, Submersible, Ballistic, Nuclear), INS Arihant, which was commissioned in 2016. This latest addition to the Indian Navy’s fleet represents a critical advancement in India’s nuclear submarine program, bolstering the country’s ability to maintain a credible second-strike capability. The submarine is a key component of India’s nuclear triad, which ensures that the nation can respond effectively to any nuclear threat.
Advanced Capabilities and Armament
Armed with K-15 ballistic missiles, INS Arighat adds substantial firepower to the Indian Navy. The K-15 missiles have a range of 750 kilometers and are capable of being fitted with strategic nuclear warheads, significantly enhancing the submarine’s deterrent capabilities. INS Arighat is also equipped with four missile launch tubes and can carry up to four K-4 Submarine Launched Ballistic Missiles (SLBMs) with a range exceeding 3,500 kilometers or twelve K-15 SLBMs. In addition to these missile systems, the submarine is armed with torpedoes, making it a formidable asset in both offensive and defensive operations.
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The submarine has been under construction and rigorous testing since its launch in 2017 at the Ship Building Centre (SBC) in Visakhapatnam. Its advanced design allows it to reach speeds of 12–15 knots (22–28 km/h) on the surface and up to 24 knots (44 km/h) when submerged, ensuring rapid deployment and strategic maneuverability in critical situations.
Strengthening the Nuclear Triad
INS Arighat’s commissioning is a pivotal step in strengthening India’s nuclear triad, which comprises land-based missiles, air-delivered nuclear weapons, and submarine-launched ballistic missiles. By operating under the Strategic Forces Command, INS Arighat will play a crucial role in India’s nuclear strategy, ensuring the country’s ability to deliver a retaliatory strike in the event of a nuclear attack.
Looking Ahead: The Future of India’s SSBN Fleet
INS Arighat is the second of four planned SSBNs under India’s nuclear submarine program. The first, INS Arihant, has been in service since 2016, and two more submarines, currently known as S4 and S4*, are still under construction. These future additions are expected to further enhance India’s strategic deterrence capabilities.
