After the successful completion of Strategic Strike Nuclear Submarine (SSBN) INS Arihant’s deterrence patrol, India has officially entered the triad of its nuclear capabilities – on land, air, and sea.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi congratulated the crew and everyone involved, and tweeted, “In an era such as this, a credible nuclear deterrence is the need of the hour. The success of INS Arihant gives a fitting response to those who indulge in nuclear blackmail.” India is now a part of a handful of countries with capabilities to design, construct and operate SSBNs.
‘Arihant’ was built in Vishakapatnam, and has also gone on a couple of deep-sea dives there. A Russian diving support ship —the RFS Epron that arrived on October 1 — has been accompanying the Arihant on its deep sea dives and launch tests.
Another project that the Navy’s Submarine Design Bureau is reportedly working on is a class of Nuclear Powered Attack Submarines (SSN), which they hope to induct over the next 15 years. The plan is to build at least six SSNs, which would cost a total of Rs. 90,000 crores and more. The financial sanction for this project was given last year.
The completion of INS Arihant’s deterrence patrol ensures India’s readiness for a nuclear strike, now that it has a solid nuclear shield. A nuclear response is only feasible if the country’s nuclear triad – air, water, and land – is ready in case of an altercation with the enemy forces.
