INS Arighaat: India’s Second Nuclear Submarine Commissioned (Image: x.com/sandeepunmithan)

India’s naval prowess received a significant boost with the commissioning of its second Arihant-class nuclear-powered submarine, INS Arighaat, on August 29, 2024. The induction took place in Visakhapatnam in the presence of Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, who lauded the event as a major achievement for the country’s defence capabilities.

Addressing the ceremony, Rajnath Singh highlighted that INS Arighaat would strengthen India’s nuclear triad, enhance nuclear deterrence, and contribute to the strategic balance and peace in the region. He emphasised the submarine’s pivotal role in safeguarding the nation’s security and commended the successful collaboration between the Indian Navy, Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO), and industry partners in bringing this advanced vessel to fruition.

Singh attributed the success of INS Arighaat to the Government’s unwavering commitment to achieving ‘Aatmanirbharta’ (self-reliance) in defence, a vision led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi. He stressed the importance of self-sufficiency in defence production, noting that the project has given a significant boost to the country’s industrial sector, particularly Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs), thereby generating employment opportunities.

The defense minister also recalled the vision of former Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee, who first positioned India on par with nuclear-armed states. “Today, India is advancing towards becoming a developed nation. A strong military is crucial to our progress, especially in the current geopolitical landscape,” Singh stated, affirming that the government is working in “mission mode” to equip soldiers with top-quality, indigenous weapons and platforms.

INS Arighaat, built using advanced design and manufacturing technology, boasts a more sophisticated design than its predecessor INS Arihant. This indigenously developed submarine stands as a testament to the expertise of Indian scientists, engineers, and naval personnel. The presence of both submarines will greatly bolster India’s deterrence capabilities and protect its national interests on a global scale, a statement from the defence ministry said.