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The commissioning of India's second nuclear-powered ballistic missile submarine (SSBN), INS Arighaat, marks a significant milestone in the country's nuclear deterrence strategy. Arighaat, along with its predecessor, INS Arihant, forms the sea leg of India's nuclear triad, providing a crucial capability for retaliatory strikes in the event of a nuclear attack. The development of SSBNs is a complex and expensive undertaking, reflecting India's commitment to maintaining a credible nuclear deterrent against potential adversaries.
The introduction of Arighaat into service strengthens India's nuclear triad, which comprises land-based missiles, air-launched nuclear weapons, and now, sea-launched ballistic missiles. The sea-based leg of the triad, due to its stealth and mobility, is considered a highly survivable deterrent. This is particularly important for India, which adopts a 'no-first use' nuclear policy. SSBNs are designed to survive a first strike and launch a retaliatory strike, thus deterring aggression through the principle of Mutual Assured Destruction (MAD).
India's efforts to bolster its nuclear deterrence come amidst concerns about China's growing nuclear capabilities. China has been developing its own nuclear submarine fleet, including the Jin-class SSBNs and the Type 095 (Sui-class) and Type 096 (Tang-class) submarines. The Tang-class, specifically, is expected to carry JL-3 missiles with a range exceeding 10,000 kilometers, potentially capable of reaching the United States mainland. This rapid advancement in China's nuclear submarine technology underscores the evolving strategic landscape in the Indo-Pacific region.
Source: INS Arighaat: The submarine lends more power to the MAD scenario