INS Arighaat: Key Facts About India’s 2nd Nuclear Ballistic Submarine

The strategic landscape of naval warfare has undergone a remarkable transformation over the past few decades, with nations increasingly focusing on developing advanced submarine capabilities. Among these nations, India stands out with its commitment to enhancing its underwater deterrence. A pinnacle of this effort is the INS Arighaat, India’s second nuclear ballistic missile submarine (SSBN). This blog delves into the key facts surrounding INS Arighaat, shedding light on its significance, capabilities, and the broader context within India’s naval strategy.

Part of the Arihant Class

INS Arighaat is a prototype of the Arihant class of submarines, conceived with advanced technological features aimed at ensuring the efficacy of India's nuclear deterrent. The Arihant class itself consists of a total of five submarines, with INS Arighaat being the second to join the fleet after the deployment of INS Arihant. As a nuclear-powered submarine, INS Arighaat is capable of operating independently for extended periods without the need to surface.

Enhancing Second Strike Capability

One of the primary roles of INS Arighaat is to enhance India’s second-strike capability, ensuring that if a nuclear attack were to occur, India would still possess the means to retaliate effectively. This capability is crucial for maintaining strategic deterrence, particularly in the context of India’s geopolitical relations with neighboring countries.

Armament and Weapon Systems

INS Arighaat is equipped with a formidable arsenal of nuclear-capable ballistic missiles. The K-15 Sagarika missile, which has a range of approximately 750 kilometers, is the primary weapon system aboard this submarine. Additionally, future upgrades may include the integration of the K-4 missile, which offers a greater range of up to 3,500 kilometers. This lethality is a potent addition to India's strategic triad, which includes land-based and air-based nuclear forces.

Stealth and Technology

Stealth is a paramount requirement for any modern submarine, and INS Arighaat possesses capabilities that render it difficult to detect. The submarine employs advanced stealth technology, including sound dampening mechanisms and a unique hull design, enabling it to operate stealthily underwater. This allows INS Arighaat to perform surveillance and strike operations without detection, which is vital for maintaining the element of surprise in military engagements.

Indigenous Development

A notable aspect of INS Arighaat is its indigenous development by the Indian Navy and the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO). This reflects India’s commitment to self-reliance in defense manufacturing, showcasing the country’s growing prowess in advanced naval technology. The effort to design and build such a complex platform within India helps save costs in foreign procurement and strengthens domestic industrial capabilities.

Strategic Implications

The commissioning of INS Arighaat marks a significant moment in bolstering India’s maritime defenses and contributes to the broader security architecture in the Indian Ocean Region. As a nation that adheres to a no-first-use policy regarding nuclear weapons, the existence of INS Arighaat reinforces India's stance on maintaining a credible deterrent against potential adversaries.

Global Significance

The development and commissioning of INS Arighaat is not merely a national achievement; it also has ramifications for global security dynamics. As India strengthens its position as a regional power, neighboring countries and global powers alike will take note of this advancement. The submarine exemplifies India’s growing naval capabilities and its commitment to maintaining peace and stability in the Indo-Pacific region.

INS Arighaat stands as a testament to India’s strategic vision and technological advancements in undersea warfare. As the second nuclear ballistic submarine in the Arihant series, it plays a pivotal role in enhancing India's nuclear deterrence and naval capabilities. Its induction is a significant step forward, fortifying India’s commitment to defending its sovereignty and promoting stability in a complex geopolitical landscape. With advancements like INS Arighaat, India continues to emerge as a formidable player in the realm of naval capabilities, ensuring that it is prepared for the challenges of the 21st century.