INS Aridhaman (S4), India’s fourth nuclear-powered ballistic missile submarine (SSBN), was launched into water at the Ship Building Centre (SBC) in Visakhapatnam on October 16.
- It is larger and more capable than the first SSBN, INS Arihant (S2).
- The S4 has significant indigenous content with extensive involvement of Indian industries.
Capabilities of INS Aridhaman (S4)
- It carries the advanced 3,500 km range K-4 submarine-launched ballistic missile (SLBM), tested in 2020, making it a crucial part of India’s undersea nuclear deterrent.
- The K-4 missile will enable the submarine to launch nuclear weapons while submerged within Indian waters, providing 5,000 km standoff capability.
About Nuclear-Powered Ballistic Missile Submarine:
- A nuclear-powered ballistic missile submarine (SSBN) is a highly specialized type of submarine built to carry and launch ballistic missiles that often have nuclear warheads.
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- Propulsion
- These submarines are driven by a nuclear reactor, enabling them to operate deep underwater with remarkable endurance and stealth.
- Strategic Importance
- SSBNs represent some of the most advanced and significant military assets. Their primary purpose is to provide a credible nuclear deterrent by ensuring the ability to launch a nuclear counterstrike, even if the nation’s land-based systems are compromised.
- Operators
- Only a select group of countries possess these powerful submarines: the United States, Russia, China, the United Kingdom, France, and India.
- Propulsion
Advantages of Nuclear-Powered Submarines
- Extended Submersion
- Nuclear propulsion allows these submarines to stay submerged for prolonged periods, avoiding detection and eliminating the need to surface frequently for refueling.
- Unmatched Stealth
- By remaining submerged almost indefinitely, SSBNs maintain a continuous at-sea deterrence, enhancing strategic security and survivability.
These capabilities make SSBNs a cornerstone of national defense, playing a vital role in maintaining global strategic stability.
India’s Nuclear-Powered Ballistic Missile Submarines
- INS Chakra (Codename: S1)
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- A nuclear-powered attack submarine (SSN) leased by India from Russia.
- INS Arihant (Codename: S2)
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- The first indigenous nuclear-powered ballistic missile submarine developed by India.
- INS Arighaat (Codename: S3)
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- Commissioned into the Indian Navy in August 2024.
Recent Update
- India has launched its fourth nuclear-powered ballistic missile submarine (SSBN), named INS Aridhaman (Codename: S4), at the Ship Building Center (SBC) in Visakhapatnam.
INS Aridhaman’s induction into the Indian Navy marks a major leap in India’s defense capabilities, enhancing its ability to project a credible nuclear deterrent. With indigenous technological contributions and a focus on self-reliance, the development of INS Aridhaman is a testament to India’s growing defense autonomy and its commitment to bolstering national security.
