On August 29, 2024, India took a major step in strengthening its naval power by commissioning the INS Arighaat, the second Arihant-class submarine, into the Indian Navy. This event, held in Visakhapatnam and attended by Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, marks a significant boost to India’s ability to defend itself, especially in terms of nuclear deterrence.
The INS Arighaat, built entirely in India, represents a key achievement in the country’s push for self-reliance in defence (Aatmanirbharta). The submarine’s advanced technology and design showcase India’s growing capability in high-tech defence manufacturing.
Compared to its predecessor, INS Arihant, the new INS Arighaat is more advanced and better equipped to protect India’s interests, especially against potential threats from neighbouring countries like China and Pakistan.
Comparing Naval Powers: India, China, and Pakistan
India’s naval power is growing, but it still lags China, which has a much larger and more powerful fleet. China has over 70 submarines, including seven nuclear ballistic missile submarines (SSBNs) and 12 nuclear attack submarines (SSNs). Meanwhile, India’s fleet is smaller and many of its conventional submarines are aging.
Pakistan’s naval strength is much weaker compared to India’s, but its close military ties with China add to the region’s strategic complexity. Pakistan’s submarine fleet is also being upgraded with help from China.
The addition of INS Arighaat, along with the upcoming INS Aridaman, is crucial for India to close this gap. These submarines are equipped with powerful ballistic missiles like the K-4, which can target regions deep within China. This enhancement in India’s nuclear capabilities is vital for maintaining a credible deterrence, particularly against China’s more advanced submarines.
Strategic Impact and Future Needs
INS Arighaat is more than just a submarine; it’s a powerful tool that enhances India’s ability to protect itself. These nuclear-powered submarines can stay hidden deep in the ocean, making them crucial for ensuring India can respond to any nuclear threats.
To keep up with China’s growing naval power, India needs to operationalize at least three such submarines, ensuring one is always on patrol. This strategy is like the UK’s approach, which has ensured continuous at-sea deterrence for over 50 years.
China already can maintain continuous nuclear deterrence with its SSBN fleet. To match this, India may need to focus more on developing additional nuclear submarines (SSNs) rather than other large surface ships like aircraft carriers.
SSNs are versatile and powerful, able to stay underwater for long periods and cover great distances. They are ideal for various missions, including attacking enemy ships, launching land-based strikes, and gathering intelligence.
As India continues to grow its naval capabilities, the commissioning of INS Arighaat is a significant milestone. However, to effectively compete with China and maintain stability in the region, India will need to invest further in advanced submarines and continue improving its technology.
