The Indian Navy is set to commission its second nuclear submarine, INS Arighat, on 29 August 2024 . The event will see the presence of high-ranking defense, national security, and military officials, according to sources.
INS Arighat is the second vessel in the Arihant class of indigenous nuclear submarines, following the INS Arihant, which entered service in 2009. The Indian Navy has successfully developed and tested long-range nuclear missiles from these submarines, and preparations are underway to induct a third submarine soon, with two more expected to be operational by 2035-36.
The Arihant class submarines, named from the Sanskrit word meaning ‘Destroyer of the Enemy,’ highlight their strategic importance. The name ‘Arihant’ was chosen for its subtlety and significance in conveying the intent.
India’s submarine acquisition and capability development plan includes building both nuclear and conventional submarines. The Navy plans to have five Arihant class submarines and six nuclear attack submarines built in three phases. In addition to the six Kalvari class submarines already in service, the Indian Navy is set to acquire 15 more submarines under Project 75 India, Project-76, and Project-75 AS.
