The Indian Navy achieved a significant milestone with the commissioning of the second Arihant-Class submarine, INS Arighaat, on August 29, 2024, in Visakhapatnam. This event represents a crucial enhancement of India’s maritime capabilities and reinforces its nuclear triad, which is vital for national security and strategic deterrence in the region. The commissioning ceremony was attended by Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, who emphasized the submarine’s importance to India’s defense infrastructure.
During his address, Rajnath Singh expressed optimism that INS Arighaat would bolster India’s nuclear triad and improve the nation’s nuclear deterrent capabilities. He highlighted the submarine’s potential to contribute significantly to establishing strategic stability and peace in the region. The Defence Minister characterized the induction of INS Arighaat as not only a technological success but also a reflection of the Indian government’s dedication to achieving self-reliance in defense, known as ‘Aatmanirbharta.’
INS Arighaat features advanced stealth technology and is equipped to launch various ballistic missiles, enabling it to operate undetected in hostile waters. With this commissioning, India aims to enhance its naval strength and secure its interests amid the increasingly complex geopolitical landscape of the Indian Ocean Region.
The submarine’s development is part of India’s broader initiative to strengthen indigenous defense production capabilities. Built by the Ship Building Centre in Visakhapatnam, the Arihant-Class submarines incorporate domestically sourced critical components, showcasing the progress made in developing indigenous technologies.
The arrival of INS Arighaat is particularly timely, given the shifting dynamics in regional security, including rising tensions in the Indo-Pacific. Expanding its submarine fleet is crucial for the Indian Navy to ensure maritime security and counter potential threats from rival nations. By enhancing underwater capabilities, India seeks to assert its influence in the region while safeguarding its maritime interests.
The Arihant-Class submarines signify a considerable advancement in India’s strategic capabilities. INS Arighaat, alongside its predecessor INS Arihant, forms the backbone of India’s sea-based nuclear deterrent, providing a credible second-strike option. This capability is essential in a region characterized by geopolitical rivalries and potential conflicts.
As India continues to bolster its defense capabilities, the commissioning of INS Arighaat serves as a testament to the country’s commitment to maintaining national security and stability. The strategic implications of this development extend beyond the submarine’s immediate operational capabilities, reinforcing India’s resolve to be a responsible and proactive regional power.
In summary, the commissioning of INS Arighaat into the Indian Navy marks a landmark achievement that enhances India’s nuclear deterrent and overall defense posture. With its advanced capabilities and a focus on self-sufficiency in defense production, India is well-positioned to navigate the challenges of an evolving security environment while contributing to regional stability and peace.
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