Watch | India has quietly inducted INS Aridhaman, its third nuclear-powered ballistic missile submarine (SSBN), marking a major boost to its sea-based nuclear deterrence. This development strengthens India’s strategic posture in the Indian Ocean Region (IOR).
What is INS Aridhaman?
INS Aridhaman is an Arihant-class SSBN, developed under India’s Advanced Technology Vessel (ATV) programme. It represents India’s growing capability in indigenous nuclear submarine construction.
The ATV programme, initiated in the 1980s with Russian assistance, is central to India’s long-term strategic deterrence framework.
Key Features of INS Aridhaman
INS Aridhaman has an approximate displacement of 7,000 tonnes, making it larger than INS Arihant. It is equipped with 8 vertical launch tubes (VLS) for submarine-launched ballistic missiles.
The submarine can carry:
K-15 SLBM (range: ~750 km)
K-4 SLBM (range: ~3,500 km)
It can reportedly deploy 8 K-4 missiles or up to 24 K-15 missiles, significantly enhancing strike capability.
India’s Nuclear Triad Explained
The nuclear triad refers to the ability to launch nuclear weapons from:
Land (Agni series missiles)
Air (fighter aircraft like Su-30MKI, Mirage 2000)
Sea (SSBNs like INS Arihant class)
India achieved nuclear triad capability in 2018, after INS Arihant completed its first deterrence patrol.
Second-Strike Capability & Doctrine
India follows a “No First Use” nuclear policy, relying on retaliatory capability. SSBNs like INS Aridhaman ensure second-strike capability, even if land and air assets are compromised.
This makes sea-based deterrence the most survivable leg of the nuclear triad.
Read : The Latest Defence Current Affairs Notes here
Also Read : Current Affairs for All Competitive Exams — SSB Interview Study Material — English Study Material for All Govt Exams — AFCAT CDS NDA CAPF AC NCERT GK Notes
