India's Third Indigenous Nuclear Submarine 'Aridaman' Nears Commissioning: Naval Expansion Update

India's first domestically manufactured nuclear submarine, INS Arihant, represents a significant milestone in the nation's naval capabilities.

New Delhi:

India is enhancing the naval element of its nuclear triad according to Navy Chief Admiral Dinesh K Tripathi, who announced on Tuesday that the third indigenous nuclear-powered submarine 'Aridaman' will soon be commissioned as part of ongoing efforts to strengthen the navy's overall combat capabilities.

During a press conference preceding Navy Day, Admiral Tripathi revealed that the acquisition process for six stealth submarines under Project 75 India (P75-I) is approaching finalization.

The Admiral also mentioned that the Navy will receive the first four of 26 Rafale-M fighter jets in 2028, following India's Rs 64,000 crore agreement with France signed in April for these advanced aircraft.

Highlighting the Navy's crucial role during Operation Sindoor, Admiral Tripathi noted that India's aggressive naval positioning compelled the Pakistan Navy to remain near their ports.

The Navy Chief explained that the Indian Navy maintained high operational readiness in the Western Arabian Sea region throughout the past seven to eight months amid tensions with Pakistan.

Without providing extensive details, Admiral Tripathi confirmed that Operation Sindoor "remains in progress."

"The aggressive posturing and immediate action during Operation Sindoor, including deployment of the carrier battle group, forced the Pakistan Navy to remain close to their ports or near the Makran coast," he stated.

Operation Sindoor has reportedly imposed financial pressure on Pakistan, as numerous merchant vessels avoided Pakistani ports following the hostilities, according to the Navy Chief.

He added that insurance costs for vessels traveling to Pakistan had significantly increased as a result.

Addressing questions about nuclear-powered submarines, Admiral Tripathi confirmed that India is preparing to commission its third indigenous nuclear-powered submarine.

INS Aridaman is currently completing final trials and will soon be commissioned, he responded to a specific inquiry.

India's nuclear-powered ballistic missile submarine (SSBN) program remains a highly classified project. The first vessel under this program was INS Arihant, followed by INS Arighat.

The SSBN program constitutes a vital component of India's nuclear deterrence strategy.

While India has established air and land-based nuclear capabilities, current efforts focus on strengthening its underwater nuclear arsenal.

INS Arihant, India's first domestically produced nuclear submarine, was launched in July 2009 and quietly commissioned in 2016.

India belongs to an exclusive group of nations possessing nuclear-powered submarines, alongside the United States, Russia, the United Kingdom, France, and China.

India has consistently advocated for universal nuclear disarmament aimed at complete elimination of nuclear weapons globally.

In 1998, India conducted the Pokhran-II nuclear tests, which provoked strong international reactions. Following these tests, India maintained that they were conducted to establish 'credible minimum deterrence' while adhering to a 'no first use' policy.

In 2003, India formally published its nuclear doctrine, clearly articulating its commitment to the 'no first use' policy.