India’s Undersea Warfare Power

Source: The post India’s Undersea Warfare Power has been created, based on the article “Pointing the beacon at India’s undersea warfare power” published in “The Hindu” on 23rd December 2024

UPSC Syllabus Topic: GS 3-Defence

Context: The article focuses on India’s significant strides in undersea warfare capabilities, highlighting the Indian Navy’s advancements and its critical role in ensuring maritime security. It provides a comprehensive overview of pivotal developments, challenges, and opportunities within the context of India’s growing maritime power and strategic aspirations.

What significant achievements marked the Indian Navy’s undersea warfare capabilities in 2024?

1. Operation Sankalp Expansion: Expanded from the Strait of Hormuz to the Red Sea, ensuring shipping security from piracy and Houthi attacks.
2. Commissioning of INS Arighaat: India’s second indigenous nuclear-powered ballistic missile submarine (SSBN) was commissioned in August 2024, enhancing the nuclear triad and deterrent capability.
3. Testing of the K-4 SLBM: Successfully tested with a range of 3,500 km from INS Arighaat, potentially placing most of China within striking range.
4. Approval of Project-77: Final clearance for building two nuclear-powered attack submarines (SSNs) at ₹40,000 crore, with over 90% indigenous content, to be delivered by 2036-37.

What developments were made regarding conventional submarines?

1. Project-75 (Scorpene-class Submarines): The sixth Scorpene-class submarine, INS Vaghsheer, is set for commissioning.
2. Planned Expansion: Proposal to order three more Scorpene-class submarines, with 60% indigenous content.
3. Project 75(I): Focused on acquiring Air Independent Propulsion (AIP)-enabled submarines, with Spain’s Navantia and Germany’s Thyssenkrupp Marine Systems as key contenders. Initial indigenous content to be 45%, increasing to 60% by the sixth boat.

What is the significance of Unmanned Underwater Vehicles (UUVs) for India’s naval capabilities?

1. Approval for Development: Sanction to build 100-tonne UUVs at ₹2,500 crore.
2. Strategic Advantage: UUVs are low-cost, high-return options, symbolizing India’s focus on niche undersea technologies to counter evolving maritime threats.

What challenges impede the Indian Navy’s undersea warfare advancements?

1. Budgetary Constraints: Mismatch between planned acquisitions and modernisation allocations.
2. Project Delays: Excessive delays in specifying requirements, shortlisting manufacturers, issuing tenders, and evaluations.
3. Sustained Funding Needs: Long-term projects demand consistent and adequate funding.

How do these advancements align with India’s maritime vision and international cooperation?

1. Balanced Blue Water Force: Aiming to integrate undersea, surface, and aviation elements for maritime stability and security.
2. Strategic Partnerships: Enhances collaboration with maritime nations, boosting India’s stature as a security provider.
3. Alignment with SAGAR: Reinforces India’s maritime vision of “Security and Growth for All in the Region” and supports a free, open, and inclusive Indo-Pacific.