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Source- This post on INS Arighat has been created based on the article “India ‘fully ready’ to add to fleet 2nd submarine with nuclear-tipped missiles” published in “Times of India” on 14 August 2024.
Why in News?
India is on the verge of commissioning its second nuclear-powered submarine, INS Arighat, equipped with nuclear missiles for strategic deterrence.
About INS Arighat
| Aspects | Description |
| About | 1. INS Arighat was commissioned into the Indian Navy on March 10, 2023. 2. INS Arighat is India’s second indigenously built nuclear-powered ballistic missile submarine (SSBN). 3. The development of INS Arighat, along with its predecessor INS Arihant, is a part of India’s effort to establish a credible nuclear triad, which includes land-based, air-based, and sea-based nuclear delivery systems. |
| Constructed by | The submarine was constructed at the Indian Navy’s Ship Building Centre (SBC) in Visakhapatnam. |
| Significance | INS Arighat plays a crucial role in enhancing the nation’s capability to launch nuclear missiles from land, air, and sea. |
| Features | 1. INS Arighat has a submerged displacement of around 6,000 tons. The submarine is approximately 111 meters (364 feet) long and 11 meters (36 feet) wide. 2. Propulsion: It is powered by a nuclear reactor which provides it with virtually unlimited range and endurance, allowing it to remain submerged for extended periods. 3. Armament: INS Arighat is equipped with ballistic missiles capable of carrying nuclear warheads. The specific missiles include the K-15 Sagarika and potentially the K-4 missile, both designed to enhance the submarine’s strategic strike capabilities. 4. The submarine features advanced stealth technology to reduce its detectability by enemy sonar systems. Its design incorporates lessons learned from INS Arihant, improving its operational effectiveness and survivability. |
| Strategic Significance | 1. Nuclear Deterrence: INS Arighat plays a crucial role in India’s nuclear triad which ensures a credible second-strike capability. This enhances India’s ability to retaliate in the event of a nuclear attack, thereby maintaining a strong and secure deterrent posture. 2. Patrols and Deployment: It operates primarily in the Indian Ocean ensuring India’s nuclear deterrent is always at sea. Its deployment enhances regional security and contributes to India’s strategic influence. |
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