SOURCE: AFI
The Indian Navy welcomed a significant addition to its fleet on August 29th with the induction of the INS Arighat. This 6,000-ton submarine, constructed at the Indian Navy’s Ship Building Centre (SBC) in Visakhapatnam, represents a major milestone in India’s indigenous submarine development program.
The Arighat boasts significant technological advancements over its predecessor, the INS Arihant. These advancements, achieved through domestic research and development, highlight India’s growing expertise in submarine design and construction.
The commissioning of the Arighat marks a significant achievement considering the lengthy construction period. Laid down in 2009 and launched in 2017, the submarine took nearly seven years to reach operational status. However, this experience has proven invaluable for Indian shipyards, paving the way for faster construction times in future submarine projects.
The upcoming S4 and S5 submarines that are expected to be launched next year will take less time to reach operational status, with construction periods reduced to approximately to eight years per submarine for Project 77 (Nuclear Attack submarine program ) and for the S5 Class SSBN constructions, This accelerated pace is a testament to the lessons learned from the Arighat project and the continuous improvement in shipbuilding capabilities.
While the Indian Ministry of Defense (MoD) has not approved bulk manufacturing of nuclear submarines due to budgetary constraints, the current construction pace of eight years per submarine is likely to remain in place. This approach allows for a more controlled and sustainable development of the submarine program.
The induction of the INS Arighat underscores India’s commitment to strengthening its naval capabilities and ensuring a strong maritime presence. As the country continues to invest in indigenous defense technologies, the Arighat serves as a symbol of India’s growing self-reliance and technological prowess.