India Advances Indigenous Nuclear Submarine Programme

India’s indigenous nuclear attack submarine (SSN) programme is gaining momentum. The design phase will take four to five years. Construction of the first submarine is expected to take an additional five years. This timeline builds on the experience gained from the ballistic nuclear missile submarine (SSBN) programme. The Indian Navy anticipates the first SSN’s induction around 2036-37.

Current Status of SSNs

India has leased two SSNs from Russia in the past. The third SSN, which has faced delays due to COVID-19, is expected to be delivered by early 2028. These submarines are crucial for the Navy, particularly for operations in the Indo-Pacific region. Their endurance is only limited by crew capacity, allowing for extensive surveillance and operational flexibility.

Recent Developments

In October, the Cabinet Committee on Security approved the construction of two indigenous SSNs. The estimated cost is around ₹35,000 crore. Additionally, India’s fourth SSBN, known as S4*, was launched at the Ship Building Centre in Visakhapatnam. Currently, India operates two SSBNs – INS Arihant and INS Arighaat. Both are equipped with advanced reactors and are capable of launching submarine-launched ballistic missiles (SLBMs).

Technical Specifications

INS Arihant, commissioned in 2016, has a displacement of 6,000 tonnes and is powered by a pressurised light-water reactor. INS Arighaat, commissioned recently, shares similar specifications but includes technological upgrades. The S4* is larger and more capable, designed to enhance India’s strategic deterrence capabilities. It can carry multiple K-4 SLBMs, which have a range of 3,500 km.

Strategic Context

The completion of India’s nuclear triad was announced in 2018, with the successful deterrence patrol of INS Arihant. India’s nuclear doctrine is rooted in the principles of Credible Minimum Deterrence (CMD) and No First Use (NFU). This strategy aims to maintain a robust retaliatory capability while ensuring national security.

Future Outlook

The indigenous SSN programme represents advancement in India’s naval capabilities. It aligns with India’s long-term strategic goals in the Indo-Pacific. The successful integration of advanced technologies will further enhance operational readiness and deterrence posture.

Questions for UPSC:

1. Critically examine the role of indigenous nuclear submarines in enhancing India’s strategic deterrence capabilities.
2. Discuss the significance of India’s No First Use policy in the context of its nuclear doctrine.
3. Explain the differences between nuclear attack submarines and ballistic missile submarines in terms of their roles and capabilities.
4. What are the implications of India’s nuclear triad for regional security dynamics in South Asia? Discuss.

Answer Hints:

1. Critically examine the role of indigenous nuclear submarines in enhancing India’s strategic deterrence capabilities.

1. Indigenous nuclear submarines (SSNs) provide India with a stealthy platform for second-strike capability, essential for deterrence.
2. They enhance India’s ability to operate in the Indo-Pacific, countering regional threats and asserting maritime dominance.
3. SSNs improve surveillance and intelligence-gathering capabilities, allowing for better situational awareness.
4. Building indigenous capabilities reduces dependence on foreign technology, encouraging national security and self-reliance.
5. Investment in SSNs aligns with India’s nuclear doctrine of Credible Minimum Deterrence (CMD) and supports its No First Use policy.

2. Discuss the significance of India’s No First Use policy in the context of its nuclear doctrine.

1. No First Use (NFU) policy puts stress on India’s commitment to maintaining a defensive posture in nuclear strategy.
2. It aims to prevent nuclear escalation and promote stability in South Asia, reducing the likelihood of nuclear conflict.
3. NFU reinforces the principle of Credible Minimum Deterrence, ensuring a robust retaliatory capability.
4. This policy helps build international credibility and encourages diplomatic relations with other nuclear powers.
5. NFU reflects India’s broader strategic culture, prioritizing restraint and responsible nuclear stewardship.

3. Explain the differences between nuclear attack submarines and ballistic missile submarines in terms of their roles and capabilities.

1. Nuclear attack submarines (SSNs) are designed for offensive operations, including anti-submarine warfare and intelligence missions.
2. Ballistic missile submarines (SSBNs) are specifically equipped to launch nuclear missiles, serving as a strategic deterrent.
3. SSNs have greater speed and maneuverability, while SSBNs prioritize stealth and survivability to protect their missile payloads.
4. SSNs can operate closer to enemy waters for reconnaissance, whereas SSBNs maintain a strategic distance for launch readiness.
5. Both types of submarines are crucial for a balanced naval strategy, enhancing overall maritime security and deterrence.

4. What are the implications of India’s nuclear triad for regional security dynamics in South Asia? Discuss.

1. The nuclear triad enhances India’s deterrence posture, providing a credible second-strike capability against adversaries.
2. It may provoke an arms race in South Asia, compelling neighboring countries to boost their own nuclear arsenals.
3. The triad contributes to strategic stability by ensuring that adversaries cannot achieve a decisive first-strike advantage.
4. India’s nuclear capabilities may influence regional alliances and partnerships, as countries reassess their security strategies.
5. The triad’s development puts stress on the importance of effective command and control mechanisms to prevent miscalculations.