SOURCE: AFI
In a recent discussion with Syed Muhammad Ali, host of World Echo News, Dr. Mansoor Ahmed, an Honorary Lecturer at the Strategic and Defence Studies Centre, Australian National University, offered valuable insights into India’s nuclear submarine program. Dr. Ahmed highlighted that India’s fleet of nuclear ballistic missile submarines (SSBNs) could, in the coming years, exceed those of European nuclear powers such as France and the United Kingdom, both in size and capabilities. With an ambitious plan to deploy an array of SSBNs equipped with intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM) capabilities, India’s navy is poised to become a formidable nuclear deterrent force in the Indo-Pacific region and beyond.
India currently operates two Arihant-class SSBNs and has two more advanced S4-class submarines in undergoing sea trials. These S4-class submarines are anticipated to feature enhancements in range, payload, and stealth compared to their predecessors. Following the S4-class, India plans to construct a new line of larger SSBNs under the S5-class program, with initial reports suggesting a total of three vessels, with the potential to expand this fleet to six units. These advancements signal India’s commitment to bolstering its sea-based nuclear deterrence capabilities.
India’s first homegrown SSBNs, the Arihant-class submarines are equipped with K-15 SLBMs with a range of approximately 750 km. With additional modifications, they are capable of carrying K-4 missiles, with a longer range of up to 3,500 km, extending India’s reach into strategic regional territories.
India’s S4-class submarines represent a significant upgrade over the Arihant-class. Reports indicate that the S4 class boasts improved range, endurance, and stealth capabilities, with a larger payload capacity that could include more advanced missile systems. These submarines are expected to enhance India’s second-strike capabilities, providing a stealthy and resilient platform for nuclear deterrence.
The S5-class, currently in the design phase, will be substantially larger than previous classes, reportedly able to carry 12-16 SLBMs. The S5-class submarines are expected to rival the capabilities of advanced SSBNs from other nuclear powers and could mark India’s entry into the league of countries with truly intercontinental-range nuclear strike capabilities. By expanding the fleet to potentially six units, India aims to ensure continuous deterrent patrols and strengthen its nuclear triad, which relies on land-based, air-based, and sea-based nuclear delivery platforms.
Dr. Ahmed highlighted India’s development of advanced SLBMs with intercontinental capabilities. The K-series missile family, which includes the K-4 and K-15 missiles currently in deployment, is expected to evolve toward longer-range SLBMs with ranges surpassing 5,000 km, and potentially even farther. These SLBMs would provide India with a credible deterrent that could reach strategic locations across the globe, establishing a more formidable second-strike capability in line with India’s “No First Use” nuclear policy. The development of intercontinental SLBMs will be a game-changer, positioning India among a select group of nations with such capabilities.