In a significant and massive development, India has launched its fourth nuclear-powered ballistic missile submarine (SSBN) this week at the Ship Building Center (SBC) in Visakhapatnam. This strategic addition uplifts the country’s nuclear deterrence capabilities, enhancing its ability to respond to potential threats.
India’s launch of its fourth SSBN follows the recent commissioning of the second SSBN. Which was INS Arighat, by Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on August 29, 2024. Looking forward to the third SSBN, INS Aridhaman, is slated for commissioning next year.
This ongoing expansion of India’s submarine fleet reinforces the country’s commitment to enhancing its maritime security and nuclear deterrence capabilities. Making a statement and significance at every step in its strategic defense initiatives.
Here Is How Indian Government Made A Discreet Plane
The Modi government’s approach to its nuclear deterrence strategy has been characterized by a level of discretion. The recent launch of the fourth SSBN, codenamed S4*, on October 16, showcases this strategy. This event occurred just a day after Defence Minister Rajnath Singh inaugurated a VLF Naval Station in Vikarabad in Telangana. Which is designed to facilitate secure communication with the Indian Navy’s strategic assets.
The discreet approach of the Modi government regarding its nuclear deterrence strategy is evident in these simultaneous developments. The VLF station plays a vital role in ensuring reliable communication with the Navy’s submarines, enhancing operational readiness. Together, these initiatives mark a step in reinforcing India’s maritime security and nuclear deterrent capabilities.
Defence Minister said in a message to the neighbouring countries who share maritime boundaries with India that maritime security is a collective effort and inviting “outside forces” to the doorstep would dent efforts for unity, PTI reported.
“Maintaining peace in the Bay of Bengal and Indian Ocean Region should be top priority. Cooperation of India’s friendly nations is essential in this effort, as even if one country is left out, the nation’s security wheel breaks,” Defence Minister said.
Here Everything Special About S4* SSBN: Indigenous Technology and Advanced Missile Capability
Reports indicate that the newly launched S4* SSBN features nearly 75% indigenous content. It is exclusively armed with K-4 nuclear ballistic missiles. These missiles have a range of 3,500 kilometers and can be launched through vertical systems.
In comparison, the first submarine of its class, INS Arihant, is equipped with K-15 nuclear missiles, which have a significantly shorter range of 750 kilometers. The advancements in the S4* shows India’s focus on enhancing its indigenous defense capabilities. It also focuses on expanding its strategic deterrence through more sophisticated missile systems.
The latest report also emphasizes that the newly launched submarines are upgrades designed with exclusive K-4 missile capabilities. These SSBNs feature unlimited range and endurance, limited only by food supplies, crew fatigue, and maintenance requirements. Currently, both INS Arihant and INS Arighat are actively engaged in deep-sea patrols.
ARussian Akula-class nuclear-powered attack submarine is also expected to join the Indian fleet on lease in 2028. This further enhancing the nation’s maritime capabilities and secures the border for future.
For The Securities Of Borders Amid Threats
India’s fleet of nuclear-powered SSBN is becoming increasingly vital in its strategy against adversaries like China. Particularly as aircraft carriers face growing vulnerabilities to long-range Chinese missiles such as the Dong Feng-21 and Dong Feng-26. As a result, the Indian government has prioritized the development of nuclear submarines over the procurement of a third aircraft carrier for the Indian Navy.
To enhancing its SSBN capabilities, India is also planning the construction of three advanced diesel attack submarines in collaboration with the French Naval Group. This initiative aims to uplift Indian defence face in the Indian Ocean Region (IOR). Where the presence of People’s Liberation Army (PLA) warships is increasing. These steps reflect India’s commitment to strengthening its maritime security in a rapidly evolving geopolitical landscape.
