In a major boost to India’s strategic defence capabilities, the country has commissioned its third nuclear-powered ballistic missile submarine (SSBN), INS Aridhaman.
The commissioning ceremony took place in Visakhapatnam. Defence Minister Rajnath Singh confirmed the development with a brief message highlighting the submarine’s power and significance.
Understanding SSBNs and Strategic Importance
SSBN stands for Ship Submersible Ballistic Nuclear, referring to submarines powered by nuclear reactors and equipped with ballistic missiles capable of carrying nuclear warheads.
These submarines are critical for maintaining a credible nuclear deterrent, as they:
- Can remain submerged for long durations
- Are difficult to detect
- Provide second-strike capability in case of a nuclear attack
India’s Growing SSBN Fleet
INS Aridhaman is part of India’s indigenous SSBN programme, which has steadily progressed over the years:
- INS Arihant – Commissioned in 2016 (first SSBN)
- INS Arighat – Commissioned in August 2024 (second SSBN)
- INS Aridhaman (S4) – Newly commissioned (third SSBN)
Compared to its predecessors, Aridhaman is larger and more powerful, enhancing India’s undersea deterrence capability.
Future Submarine Development
India’s submarine programme continues to expand:
- The fourth SSBN is currently undergoing sea trials and is expected to be commissioned soon
- Work has already begun on the fifth SSBN, which is expected to be even more advanced
Additionally, India is developing nuclear-powered attack submarines (SSNs):
- First indigenous SSN expected by 2036–37
- Second SSN to follow within two years
- Approved by the Cabinet Committee on Security
Completion of Nuclear Triad
With the strengthening of its SSBN fleet, India has firmly established its nuclear triad, meaning it can launch nuclear weapons from:
- Land-based missiles
- Air-based platforms
- Sea-based submarines
This places India among a select group of nations with advanced nuclear capabilities, including:
- United States
- Russia
- United Kingdom
- France
- China
Challenges in Conventional Submarine Programme
Despite progress in nuclear submarines, India’s conventional submarine programme has faced delays:
- Out of the planned 24 submarines by 2030, only 6 have been inducted
- Project 75 (India), involving submarines with Air Independent Propulsion (AIP), is yet to be finalised
- Future indigenous submarines will be developed under Project 76
Conclusion
The commissioning of INS Aridhaman marks a significant milestone in India’s defence modernisation and strategic deterrence. With continued investments in submarine technology, India is steadily enhancing its maritime security and global strategic standing.