The Indian Navy is all set to commission its second nuclear submarine, INS Arighat, in a grand ceremony expected to take place on Thursday. The commissioning of INS Arighat will mark a significant milestone in India’s naval capabilities and defense preparedness.
According to sources from the news agency ANI, the commissioning event will be graced by top defense, national security, and military officials. INS Arighat, the second boat of the Arihant class indigenous nuclear submarines, will join its predecessor, INS Arihant, which was inducted into the Navy back in 2009.
Over the years, the Indian Navy has successfully developed and tested long-range nuclear missiles from both INS Arihant and INS Arighat. The addition of INS Arighat is part of the Navy’s strategic expansion plans, with two more nuclear submarines expected to be ready by 2035-36.
The INS Arighat, like its predecessor, is part of the Arihant class of nuclear-powered ballistic submarines. The name ‘Arihant’ finds its roots in Sanskrit, symbolizing the ‘Destroyer of the Enemy,’ highlighting the critical role these submarines play in India’s defense strategy.
Key Features of INS Arighat:
• INS Arighat is the second submarine of the Arihant class, complementing the INS Arihant commissioned in 2009.
• India has conducted successful tests of long-range nuclear missiles from both submarines and eyes the induction of a third submarine soon.
• The Arihant class submarines take inspiration from their name ‘Destroyer of the Enemy’ and play a crucial role in India’s defense architecture.
• The Indian government’s blueprint includes the construction of five Arihant class submarines and six nuclear attack submarines.
The selection of the name ‘Arihant’ for the submarine class was a well-thought decision taken at various levels due to its symbolism and strength in conveying the nation’s resolve. India’s long-term submarine acquisition strategy includes the construction of both nuclear and conventional submarines. The goal is to have five Arihant class submarines alongside six nuclear attack submarines, to be built in three phases.
In addition to its nuclear submarine capabilities, the Indian Navy has made significant progress in the conventional submarine domain. Six new Kalvari class submarines are already in operation, with plans underway for the acquisition of 15 more submarines under Project 75 India, Project-76, and Project-75 AS.
The commissioning of INS Arighat marks a pivotal moment in India’s maritime defense capabilities, further strengthening the country’s naval prowess and strategic deterrence. As India continues to bolster its naval fleet with advanced submarines, the nation takes a significant step towards enhancing its security preparedness in the region.
