Indian Navy Quietly Launch Forth Nuclear Missile Submarine Into Water for its latest nuclear-powered submarine, a move seen as a significant step in bolstering its defense capabilities in the Indo-Pacific region. Named INS Aridhaman, this submarine can carry nuclear ballistic missiles, making it a powerful addition to India’s arsenal amid escalating regional challenges.
Rising Security Concerns Prompt Defense Upgrades
As diplomatic tensions simmer, particularly around issues with Canada and the U.S. concerning the Khalistan movement, and with military stand-offs along the Line of Actual Control (LAC) with China in Ladakh, India is maintaining a steady pace in its defense preparedness. This new submarine deployment adds another layer of strategic deterrence against potential threats.
The Remarkable Story of INS Vikramaditya: From Soviet Glory to Indian Naval Power
In October this year, the sea trials began from Visakhapatnam’s Ship Building Center (SBC) for the nuclear-armed submarine. Defense experts note that if trials conclude successfully, India’s Navy will gain another powerful asset in the strategic ‘Ship Submersible Ballistic Nuclear’ (SSBN) class.
Indian Navy Quietly Launch Forth Nuclear Missile Submarine Into Water
The Strategic Role of SSBN-Class Submarines
India’s SSBN-class submarines, also known as ‘Ship Submersible Ballistic Nuclear’ vessels, are unique due to their dual capabilities—nuclear-powered engines for sustained underwater operations and nuclear ballistic missile capacity. INS Aridhaman is the second SSBN-class vessel to join the Indian Navy, following the 2016 induction of INS Arihant, India’s first SSBN. The new submarine is reportedly equipped with the “K-4” nuclear ballistic missile, capable of accurately hitting targets over 3,500 kilometers away.
Sources close to the defense sector have confirmed that INS Aridhaman’s tests will focus on operational readiness and power, after which it will become fully operational. Defense strategists believe this vessel will bolster India’s influence across the Indian Ocean and Indo-Pacific regions.
The Code-Named ‘S4’ Submarine Program
Code-named ‘S4,’ the latest submarine program has been shrouded in secrecy, with trials reportedly commencing on October 16. Built predominantly with indigenous materials, INS Aridhaman is expected to reinforce India’s position as a formidable power in the Indian Ocean. With the Cabinet Committee on Security’s recent clearance for more SSBN construction, the Indian Navy aims to add at least two more nuclear-powered attack submarines in the coming years, a plan aligned with the rising dominance of China’s People’s Liberation Army Navy (PLAN) in the region.
Long-Term Strategic Goals and Capabilities
The government has laid the groundwork for producing even more advanced nuclear submarines, potentially with an increased strike range of up to 5,000 kilometers. Such capability could provide India with a deeper strategic reach, potentially influencing power dynamics in the Indian Ocean and beyond. In addition to SSBNs, the Indian Navy currently uses INS Chakra, a nuclear-powered attack submarine leased from Russia until 2028. Plans for constructing a third aircraft carrier domestically are also underway, aiming to strengthen India’s maritime resilience further.
Expanding India’s Naval Power
Since assuming office in 2014, Prime Minister Narendra Modi has prioritized India’s defense modernization, with a special emphasis on naval assets. In September 2022, he handed over the indigenously built aircraft carrier, INS Vikrant, to the Navy, further enhancing India’s maritime reach.
Given recent developments, defense experts see these upgrades as essential in countering Chinese naval activity, which has steadily increased across the Indian Ocean. With China deploying advanced long-range missiles on its warships, such as the Dong Feng 21 and Dong Feng 26, India’s strategic submarines and other naval assets provide a necessary counterweight.
Future Prospects for the Indian Navy
By December this year, the Navy expects to receive another diesel-powered submarine, INS Vagsheer, the sixth in the ‘Kalvari-class’ of silent attack submarines. This addition marks another step in India’s ongoing effort to create a balanced fleet capable of silent, efficient operations.
The Indian government’s focus on homegrown defense technology is also gaining traction. Recent moves to enhance low-frequency communication bases for submarines ensure better connectivity and control, giving the Indian Navy a competitive edge in stealth and operational efficiency.