India recently celebrated a major accomplishment in its naval capabilities with the commissioning of INS Arighat, its second nuclear-powered ballistic missile submarine (SSBN). This achievement reinforces India's nuclear triad, securing its position amongst a select group of nations capable of building and operating such sophisticated vessels.
INS Arighat: Key Details
Strategic Importance
The commissioning of INS Arighat significantly enhances India's strategic posture. The submarine's ability to remain submerged for extended periods, coupled with its nuclear propulsion, grants it tremendous operational flexibility and stealth. Armed with nuclear-tipped ballistic missiles, INS Arighat serves as a credible deterrent against any potential adversary, ensuring India's security and sovereignty. The extended range of the K-4 missile, as highlighted in the video, allows India to target a wider area, further enhancing its deterrence capabilities.
Global Context
With INS Arighat, India joins an exclusive club of nations – China, France, Russia, the UK, and the USA – possessing nuclear ballistic missile submarines. This capability is crucial in maintaining a balance of power in the Indo-Pacific region and safeguarding India's national interests.