Article 3: Bolstering deterrence through submarine dominance
Why in news: INS Aridhaman gained attention after Rajnath Singh hinted at its commissioning, signalling progress in India’s nuclear submarine programme and strengthening of its sea-based nuclear deterrence capability.
Key Details
- Third SSBN in Arihant-class after INS Arihant and INS Arighat
- Higher firepower: Up to 24 K-15 and 8 K-4/K-5 missiles
- Strengthens nuclear triad (land, air, sea capability)
- Enhances second-strike deterrence in Indian Ocean region
- Boosts indigenous defence and submarine capability
Commissioning of INS Aridhaman
- On April 3, Rajnath Singh hinted at “Aridhaman” on X, sparking speculation about its commissioning
- INS Aridhaman is the third SSBN in India’s nuclear submarine programme
- Earlier submarines: INS Arihant (2016) and INS Arighat (2024)
- Confirmation gained traction after Admiral Dinesh Tripathi stated trials were in final stage
- Next Arihant-class submarine likely to be commissioned soon
Enhanced Capabilities of INS Aridhaman
- Larger submarine (~7000 tonnes) with improved firepower
- Can carry up to 24 K-15 Sagarika missiles
- Also capable of deploying 8 nuclear-tipped K-4/K-5 missiles
- Significant upgrade over earlier submarines (which carried fewer missiles)
- Represents gradual technological advancement in SSBN fleet
Strengthening India’s Nuclear Triad
- Boosts India’s nuclear triad (land, air, sea-based capability)
- Places India among elite nations like USA, Russia, China, France, UK
- Enhances second-strike capability and deterrence
- Supports India’s ‘No First Use’ nuclear doctrine
- Strengthens maritime deterrence against China and Pakistan
Changing Nature of Modern Warfare
- Warfare now multi-domain (land, sea, air interconnected)
- Indian Ocean gaining importance due to rising Chinese presence
- Conflicts like West Asia show rapid shift to maritime zones (e.g., Strait of Hormuz)
- Operations like Operation Sindoor highlight potential naval role
- Strong sea-based deterrence is now strategically essential
Self-Reliance & Future Submarine Plans
- SSBN programme boosts indigenous defence capabilities
- Reduces dependence on foreign suppliers amid global conflicts
- India plans fourth Arihant-class submarine
- Aim to develop indigenous nuclear attack submarines (SSNs) by 2036–38
- Submarine dominance emerging as a core pillar of national security strategy
Conclusion
The induction of INS Aridhaman marks a significant step in strengthening India’s strategic deterrence and maritime security. As modern warfare becomes increasingly multi-domain, a robust sea-based nuclear capability is essential. Alongside promoting self-reliance in defence production, it enhances India’s ability to counter emerging regional threats and reinforces its position as a responsible nuclear power committed to credible minimum deterrence.
EXPECTED QUESTION FOR PRELIMS:
Consider the following statements:
- INS Aridhaman is a nuclear-powered ballistic missile submarine (SSBN).
- It is part of India’s Arihant-class submarines.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
- 1 only
- 2 only
- Both 1 and 2
- Neither 1 nor 2
Answer: c