India Enhances Maritime Defense with INS Arighat and New Nuclear Submarines
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Commissioning of INS Arighat | - INS Arighat is India's second nuclear-powered ballistic missile submarine (SSBN). |
| - Expected to be commissioned within the next two months. | |
| - Joins INS Arihant, the first SSBN inducted in 2016. | |
| - Surface speed: 12-15 knots (22-28 km/h); underwater speed: up to 24 knots (44 km/h). | |
| - Equipped with four launch tubes for K-4 (3,500 km range) or K-15 missiles ( 750 km range). | |
| Expansion of Nuclear Submarine Fleet | - Approval for construction of six additional nuclear submarines (SSNs). |
| - Estimated cost: Over ₹1 lakh crore (approximately $12 billion). | |
| - Aligns with the "Make in India" initiative for self-reliance in defense manufacturing. | |
| - Advanced features: stealth technology and autonomous drones. | |
| Delayed Project Delta and SSNs | - Project Delta delayed beyond 2027 due to Russia's conflict with Ukraine. |
| - Originally included leased Russian Akula class SSNs. | |
| - Indian Navy seeks approval for two additional SSNs, with initial acceptance of necessity (AoN). | |
| Strategic Importance of SSNs | - SSNs offer superior underwater speed and endurance compared to diesel-electric submarines. |
| - Crucial for countering China's naval expansion in the Indian Ocean and regional security. | |
| Future Developments | - INS Aridaman, the third SSBN, expected to be commissioned early next year. |