India has bolstered its naval capabilities with the commissioning of its second nuclear-powered submarine, INS Arighaat, at a ceremony held in Visakhapatnam on Thursday. Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, present at the event, hailed the milestone as a significant step towards achieving self-reliance in defense. The new submarine is equipped with advanced indigenous systems and is set to enhance India’s nuclear deterrence and maritime security.
INS Arighaat is part of the Arihant class, derived from a Sanskrit term meaning “Destroyer of the Enemy.” It was constructed using advanced design and manufacturing technology, with the participation of Indian scientists, industries, and the naval workforce. The submarine is capable of submerged speeds of up to 24 knots (44 km/h) and is armed with nuclear-tipped missiles, which provide India with robust second-strike capabilities.
Read More: FO Confirms Pakistan’s Invitation to Modi for SCO Summit
A Strategic Asset for Regional Peace and Security
According to Singh, the addition of INS Arighaat will further solidify India’s nuclear triad, reinforcing the nation’s commitment to maintaining strategic balance and peace in the region. “Along with economic prosperity, we need a strong military,” Singh stated, emphasizing the government’s mission to provide top-quality, indigenously produced weapons to the armed forces. He lauded the Indian Navy, Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO), and the industry for their collaborative efforts in realizing this project.
The Defence Ministry highlighted the submarine’s role in enhancing India’s deterrence capability and its significance in safeguarding national interests. As part of India’s long-term submarine acquisition plan, the government aims to construct five Arihant class boats, alongside six nuclear attack submarines in three blocks. This initiative is aligned with India’s policy of no-first-use of nuclear weapons, ensuring a credible second-strike capability.
Boost to Indigenous Defense Manufacturing
INS Arighaat’s commissioning represents a substantial boost to India’s industrial sector, particularly the micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) involved in its development. The project has not only advanced technological expertise but also created numerous job opportunities. Singh stressed the importance of self-sufficiency in defense, recalling the political will exhibited by former Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee, which enabled India to establish itself as a nuclear-armed state.
The Defence Minister called the achievement a testament to Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s government’s unwavering commitment to ‘Aatmanirbharta’ (self-reliance) in defense. “It is essential for us to develop rapidly in every field, including defense, especially in today’s geopolitical scenario,” Singh noted. The construction of INS Arighaat involved cutting-edge technology, complex engineering, and the use of special materials, underscoring India’s growing defense manufacturing capabilities.
Future Plans and Strategic Ambitions
Looking ahead, India plans to expand its nuclear submarine fleet further. Alongside INS Arighaat, the Indian Navy is set to deploy more submarines, including 15 new Kalvari-class boats as part of various ongoing projects. The Navy has also sought approval for two nuclear-powered conventionally armed submarines, reflecting its ambition to maintain a potent maritime presence.
With INS Arighaat and its predecessor INS Arihant now patrolling the high seas, India’s strategic deterrent capabilities have been significantly enhanced, supporting its objective of regional stability and peace.