CHRISTCHURCH, New Zealand — With an increasing concern over the movement of Chinese and Pakistani warships and submarines in the Indian Ocean, India is taking decisive steps to enhance its naval capabilities by expanding its nuclear-powered submarine fleet.
Following government approval of a substantial budget of 400 billion rupees (approximately US$4.8 billion), India is set to embark on a new class of attack submarines (SSN), with plans to construct an initial pair of advanced 6,000-ton vessels.
Local media have reported that over 90% of the components for these submarines will be sourced from domestic manufacturers, and the Indian Navy (IN) has ambitious plans to eventually operate a total of six submarines within this class.
The newly developed submarines are expected to significantly bolster the Navy’s capabilities in monitoring Chinese naval activities throughout the Indian Ocean, as well as critical maritime chokepoints such as the Malacca Strait, Gulf of Aden, and the Persian Gulf. China‘s naval presence in these international waters has been steadily increasing, particularly due to its ongoing counter-piracy missions in the Gulf of Aden that have been active since 2008.
Equipped with advanced torpedoes and BrahMos anti-ship and land-attack missiles, it is anticipated that the first SSN, which is to be constructed in Vishakhapatnam, will take several years before it sees operational service.
In addition to enhancing its SSN fleet, India is also investing in nuclear-powered ballistic-missile submarines (SSBN). The recent commissioning of INS Arighaat, a 6,000-ton SSBN, in Visakhapatnam marks a significant milestone for India as this vessel becomes the second in the SSBN category, following the inaugural INS Arihant that entered service in 2016.
“Today, India is surging ahead to become a developed country,” asserted Minister of Defence Rajnath Singh, highlighting the importance of rapid development across all sectors, particularly in defense against contemporary geopolitical challenges.
Singh emphasized that the newly commissioned 111.6-meter-long Arighaat will fortify India’s nuclear triad and contribute to enhanced nuclear deterrence while establishing strategic balance and peace within the region, underscoring its crucial role in national security.
After a lengthy construction process spanning 15 years, Arighaat was launched in 2017, although no public images of the submarine are available. Its keel was laid back in 2009, marking the start of a significant technological endeavor.
As highlighted in a press release from the Ministry of Defence, “The technological advancements undertaken indigenously on this submarine make it significantly more advanced than its predecessor Arihant.” This enhancement reflects India’s commitment to strengthen its naval capabilities to deter potential adversaries and protect national interests.
Improvements in the Arighaat are believed to include a larger missile capacity, refined internal design, and enhanced propulsion systems. The Ministry of Defence further stated, “The construction of INS Arighaat involved the use of advanced design and manufacturing technology, detailed research and development, utilization of special materials, complex engineering and highly skilled workmanship.”
A third SSBN, designated S4 and extending approximately 20 meters longer than its predecessors, is expected to undergo commissioning by 2025.
As India continues its commitment to bolster its sea-based nuclear triad, the launch of the fourth SSBN, a new 7,000-ton vessel known as S4*, took place on October 16.
Gordon Arthur is an Asia correspondent for Defense News. After a 20-year stint working in Hong Kong, he now resides in New Zealand. He has attended military exercises and defense exhibitions in about 20 countries around the Asia-Pacific region.
**Interview with Military Analyst Dr. Anjali Menon on India’s Naval Expansion**
**Host:** Welcome to our program. Today, we’re discussing India’s significant move to enhance its naval capabilities amid growing concerns over increased Chinese and Pakistani naval activities in the Indian Ocean. Joining us is Dr. Anjali Menon, a military analyst and expert in strategic defense. Thank you for being here, Dr. Menon.
**Dr. Menon:** Thank you for having me.
**Host:** Let’s dive right in. India has approved a substantial budget of 400 billion rupees, approximately US$4.8 billion, to expand its nuclear-powered submarine fleet. What do you think drove this decision?
**Dr. Menon:** The decision reflects India’s recognition of the shifting dynamics in the Indian Ocean, particularly with heightened military activity from China and Pakistan. As these nations increase their naval presence, India feels a pressing need to bolster its own defensive capabilities to maintain regional stability and protect its maritime interests.
**Host:** The plans include the construction of advanced submarines primarily sourced from local manufacturers. How will this impact India’s defense industry?
**Dr. Menon:** This initiative is a significant boost for India’s defense manufacturing sector. Not only does it reduce dependency on foreign technology, but it also stimulates domestic innovation and job creation. Over 90% of the components being sourced locally is an impressive commitment to ‘Make in India.’
**Host:** The new submarines are expected to enhance surveillance over critical maritime routes like the Malacca Strait and the Gulf of Aden. How critical are these areas for India?
**Dr. Menon:** These routes are vital for international trade and energy supplies. The Indian Navy needs to ensure freedom of navigation and counter any potential threats, especially given China’s increased engagement in counter-piracy missions since 2008. Enhanced surveillance capabilities will allow India to monitor these strategic chokepoints more effectively.
**Host:** With the commissioning of the INS Arighaat, India now has two operational SSBNs. What does this mean for India’s nuclear deterrent strategy?
**Dr. Menon:** The INS Arighaat significantly strengthens India’s nuclear triad, which is essential for credible deterrence. By enhancing underwater capabilities, India can ensure that its second-strike capability remains robust. This contributes to strategic balance and aims to deter potential aggressors in the region, thus supporting broader national security objectives.
**Host:** Defense Minister Rajnath Singh emphasized that India is surging ahead to become a developed country. How does military advancement align with this vision?
**Dr. Menon:** Military advancement is a crucial component of national development. A strong defense posture not only empowers India to protect its sovereignty but also establishes it as a key player on the global stage. As India invests in its defense capabilities, it signals to the world its intention to play a proactive role in regional security.
**Host:** Thank you, Dr. Menon, for sharing your insights on this critical issue. It seems clear that India is taking significant steps to secure its maritime interests in a changing geopolitical landscape.
**Dr. Menon:** Thank you, it’s been a pleasure discussing this important topic.
