In the presence of top military, national security and defence officials, India’s defence minister Rajnath Singh officially commissioned Indian Naval Sail (INS) Arighaat. It marks the latest addition to Indian Navy’s growing lethal arsenal.
This is India’s second nuclear-powered submarine, after INS Arihant commissioned in 2016, but is much more technologically advanced than its predecessor. These are called Ship Submersible Ballistic Nuclear (SSBN) submarines and two more of these are expected to join this four-SSBN project but are still under construction. These SSBNs are difficult to detect and have the ability to launch surprise and retaliatory attacks.
The official induction took place at the Ship Building Centre of the Eastern Naval Command in Visakhapatnam on August 29, where it was also built and tested. This has been a secretive project and the event was also low-key. The INS, as per sources, is expected to operate under the Strategic Forces Command.
The submarine is 112-metres long, has four missile launch tubes, armed with K-15 missiles that can be fitted with strategic nuclear warhead and has an overall strike range of 750km. Like its predecessor, INS Arighaat is powered with 83 MW light-water reactors which enables it to stay submerged in water for extended periods. The submarine can reach a speed of 22–28 km/hr on the surface and when submerged, up to 44 km/hr. The submarine will also be armed with torpedoes.
During the event, the Raksha Mantri in his address expressed confidence that ‘Arighaat’ will strengthen India’s nuclear triad, enhance nuclear deterrence, and help in establishing strategic balance & peace in the region. He assured the people that it will play a decisive role in the country’s security. The minister also lauded the commissioning as an achievement for the nation and a testament to the Modi-led Government’s unwavering commitment to security and aatmanirbharta.
Advanced design and manufacturing technology, detailed research & development, special materials, complex engineering and highly skilled workmanship went into the construction. The unique feature in the making is that the submarine’s construction was fully indigenous and the equipment’s were conceptualized, designed, manufactured and integrated by Indian scientists, industry and Naval personnel. The minister specially appreciated the Indian Navy, DRDO & the Industry for their efforts and synergy in achieving this capability.
Thus, the induction marks a crucial step in India’s defence preparedness and strategic prowess. It will help enhance our deterrence capabilities and strengthen our nuclear umbrella over land, air and sea.
