India Launches Fourth Nuclear Powered Submarine, Check Details
India has successfully launched its fourth nuclear-powered ballistic missile submarine (SSBN) on 16th Oct 2024, further strengthening its underwater nuclear deterrence. Read more in detail.
Nigam Sharma28 Oct, 2024
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India Launches Fourth Nuclear Powered Submarine: On October 16, 2024, India achieved a significant milestone in its defence sector by launching its fourth nuclear-powered ballistic missile submarine (SSBN), code-named S-4 at the Ship Building Center (SBC) in Visakhapatnam. The launch strengthens India's maritime nuclear deterrence, enhancing its capability to maintain a second-strike option, a crucial aspect of its nuclear triad.
This development comes during a time when India is involved in de-escalation efforts with China and diplomatic tensions with Canada, further highlighting the importance of such strategic advancements. The new submarine, equipped with the capability to launch nuclear-tipped missiles, marks another step in India’s mission to build a robust and self-reliant defense infrastructure.List of Active Submarines In Indian Navy
India’s Strategic Submarine Fleet
India’s journey toward developing a formidable SSBN fleet began with the launch of INS Arihant (S-2) in 2009, which was commissioned in 2016. Since then, the Indian Navy has steadily advanced its capabilities with the induction of subsequent submarines. Earlier this year, on August 29, 2024, INS Arighaat , the second SSBN, was commissioned. The third submarine, INS Aridhaman , is expected to be inducted by 2025, which will make India’s second-strike nuclear capability fully operational by next year.India's SSBN Fleet
| Submarine | Launch Year | Commissioning Year | Missile Capability | Range |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| INS Arihant (S-2) | 2009 | 2016 | K-15 SLBMs | 750 km |
| INS Arighaat | 2014 | 2024 | K-15 SLBMs | 750 km |
| INS Aridhaman | Expected 2025 | Expected 2025 | K-4 SLBMs | 3500 km |
| S-4* | 2024 | Not Yet Commissioned | To be revealed | Likely 3500+ km |
Importance of SSBNs in Nuclear Deterrence
SSBNs play a critical role in a nation’s defense by providing survivable second-strike capability, a deterrence strategy crucial for countries like India that follow a no-first-use nuclear policy. In case of a nuclear conflict, the ability to retaliate from hidden underwater positions ensures the survivability of the nation's nuclear arsenal. With long coastlines and a vast maritime region, India is well-positioned to deploy these submarines to ensure effective second-strike capabilities.Strategic Challenges and Global Context
The strategic waters of the Indian Ocean have become a region of increasing geopolitical importance. While India maintains its nuclear-powered fleet, only China, in India’s neighborhood, currently possesses SSBNs, which have been deployed in the Indian Ocean for patrols and strategic missions. There are also emerging reports that Pakistan is seeking to develop its own sea-based nuclear deterrent, possibly by arming its Hangor-class submarines with nuclear-tipped missiles. Such developments have intensified the need for India to continue enhancing its submarine capabilities to maintain regional stability. The Indian Navy’s efforts are supported by the government’s decision to focus on submarine development, temporarily putting on hold other large-scale projects like the Indigenous Aircraft Carrier (IAC)-2 to prioritize the construction of additional nuclear-powered submarines.S-4: A New Class of SSBNs*
The newly launched S-4 is based on the expertise gained from building the earlier SSBNs, INS Arihant and INS Aridhaman . The S-4 is categorized as an “Arihant-stretch” variant, featuring enhanced capabilities compared to its predecessors. Satellite imagery in 2021 revealed that the S-4 is larger than the 6,000-tonne INS Arihant , with a length of approximately 125.4 meters and a displacement of 7,000 tonnes.Key Specifications of INS Arihant and S-4
| Feature | INS Arihant (S-2) | S-4 |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 6,000 tonnes | 7,000 tonnes |
| Length | 110 meters | 125.4 meters |
| Propulsion | 83 MW Pressurized Water Reactor (PWR) | Likely Similar or Enhanced |
| Missile Capacity | K-15 SLBMs | Likely K-4 SLBMs |
| Speed | 24 knots underwater | Likely Similar |
India’s Quest for Maritime Security
The development of SSBNs like S-4 has been part of India’s long-term defense strategy. The project to develop nuclear-powered submarines, known as the Advanced Technology Vessel (ATV) program, started in 1984 under the leadership of Vice Admiral Mihir K. Roy. It has since become a testament to India’s growing indigenous defense capabilities. The close collaboration between the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO), the Department of Atomic Energy (DAE), and other public and private sector entities made it possible for India to construct these advanced vessels. The successful launch of INS Arihant in 2009 marked the beginning of a new chapter in India’s defense history, which continues to evolve with the recent launch of S-4 . The launch of S-4 marks a significant step in India's efforts to modernize its maritime defense capabilities. With four SSBNs in operation by 2025, including INS Aridhaman , India will be better positioned to ensure its second-strike capability and enhance its nuclear deterrence. This strategic development is essential for maintaining stability in the Indo-Pacific region, countering the growing maritime influence of neighboring powers, and protecting India's long-term security interests. As the geopolitical landscape continues to evolve, India’s nuclear-powered submarine fleet will remain a cornerstone of its defense strategy, ensuring that the country can respond effectively to emerging threats while upholding its commitment to peace and stability.
India Launches Fourth Nuclear Powered Submarine FAQs
Q1: What is India’s latest nuclear-powered submarine?
A1: India recently launched its fourth nuclear-powered ballistic missile submarine (SSBN), code-named S-4*, enhancing its nuclear deterrence capability.
Q2: What is the significance of SSBNs for India?
Ans. A2: SSBNs are crucial for maintaining India’s second-strike capability, ensuring a survivable nuclear deterrent, especially due to the country's no-first-use nuclear policy.
Q3: How many SSBNs does India currently have operational?
A3: India now has two operational SSBNs – INS Arihant and INS Arighat, with INS Aridhaman expected to be commissioned by 2025.
Q4: What missile systems are equipped on India’s SSBNs?
A4: INS Arihant and INS Arighat are armed with K-15 missiles, with a range of 750 km, while INS Aridhaman will carry K-4 missiles, capable of reaching 3500 km.
Q5: Why is the launch of S-4 important?
The launch of S-4* bolsters India’s nuclear deterrence by ensuring survivability in the event of a nuclear conflict and maintaining continuous patrol for a credible second-strike capability.
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