With its first deterrence patrol successfully accomplished, the indigenous ballistic missile nuclear submarine, INS Arihant, has reached a significant milestone. This accomplishment signifies the completion of India’s Nuclear Triad, as described in its Nuclear Doctrine. The achievement sets India apart as one of the nations boasting of the technological acumen to design, construct, and operate nuclear-powered ballistic missile submarines or SSBNs. At present, other countries with this capability include the United States, France, Britain, China, and Russia.
SSBNs are regarded as the most credible platform for a second-strike due to their nuclear reactors that allow them to remain underwater indefinitely, making them undetectable by enemies.
The Advanced Technology Vessel Programme & Arihant
Arihant was indigenously developed under the Advanced Technology Vessel programme, an initiative that began in the 1990s. It is notable for its operational status following successful sea trials. The next submarine in line, Arighat, is currently undergoing similar sea trials and will be integrated into service upon their successful completion.
Understanding Deterrence Patrol
Deterrence Patrol signifies that the submarine, Arihant in this case, sailed the deep seas armed with ballistic missiles equipped with nuclear warheads. The main purpose of a deterrence patrol is to deter adversaries from initiating a first nuclear-strike. This is primarily because an SSBN is capable of launching a retaliatory strike within minutes.
| Fact | Details |
|---|---|
| First nuclear test by India | 1974 |
| Declaration as a nuclear weapon state | 1998 |
| Introduction of Nuclear Doctrine | 2003 |
| Induction of INS Arihant | 2000s |
| Completion of first deterrence patrol by INS Arihant | Recent times |
Exploring India’s Nuclear Doctrine
India conducted its initial nuclear test in 1974, followed by the second one in 1998. It was after the second test that India formally declared itself a nuclear weapon state. This was followed by the introduction of the Nuclear Doctrine in 2003.
The crux of India’s Nuclear Doctrine is built around several key points:
– The commitment to build and maintain credible minimum deterrence.
– A strict ‘No First Use’ policy in which India will only retaliate with nuclear weapons if it or its forces anywhere are attacked with nuclear weapons.
– Any retaliation to a first strike will be severe enough to cause unacceptable damage.
– Only the civilian political leadership, via the Nuclear Command Authority, can authorize retaliatory attacks.
– A commitment not to use nuclear weapons against non-nuclear weapon states.
– In case of an attack with biological or chemical weapons, India retains the right to retaliate with nuclear weapons.
– A firm commitment towards the objective of a nuclear weapons-free world through verifiable and non-discriminatory disarmament at a global level.
The Significance of Nuclear Triad
A Nuclear Triad represents a three-pronged military force structure that comprises land-launched nuclear missiles, submarines armed with nuclear missiles, and strategic aircraft equipped with nuclear bombs and missiles. The successful induction and operational status of INS Arihant marks the completion of this crucial triad in India’s defence arsenal.
