New Delhi: INS Arighat, India’s second nuclear-powered ballistic missile submarine, was commissioned into the Indian Navy at Visakhapatnam on Thursday. Defense Minister Rajnath Singh, head of Indian strategic command Vice Admiral Suraj Berry, Chief of Naval Staff Admiral Dinesh Tripathi and leading DRDO officials were present during the commissioning of the submarine.
In his address, Singh exuded confidence that ‘Arighat’ will further boost India’s nuclear triad, enhance nuclear deterrence, help in establishing strategic balance and peace in the region, and play a decisive role in the security of the country. He termed this self-reliance as the foundation of self power.
What is the meaning of Arighat?
Arighat, the Arihant-Class submarine, derives its name from a Sanskrit word which means the “Destroyer of the Enemy”. The name is apt as it denotes the strategic importance of a nuclear-powered submarine. Arighat reflects India’s deep commitment to protect its maritime interests with unmatched deterrence.
What are the key features of Arighat?
The Arihant-class submarine has been constructed at the Ship Building Centre (SBC) in Visakhapatnam. The indigenous, 6,000-tonne INS Arighat is equipped with 83 MW pressurised light-water reactors. It can remain submerged for extended periods, giving it a significant edge over conventional submarines. It can travel at a speed of up to 24 knots (44 km/h) when submerged and 12–15 knots (22–28 km/h) on the surface.
INS Arighat can carry up to four nuclear-capable — 4 SLBMs (Submarine Launched Ballistic Missiles) — with a range exceeding 3,500 kilometres, or 12 K-15 SLBMs with a range of around 750 kilometres. The K-15 missiles can be fitted with a strategic nuclear warhead. The submarine will also be armed with torpedoes.
INS Arighat has stealth capabilities and therefore, it is a game-changer. The INS Arighat can operate discreetly beneath the ocean’s surface, and can remain undetected while responding quickly to any potential threat.
INS Arighat’s construction involved the use of advanced design and manufacturing technology, detailed research and development, utilisation of special materials, complex engineering and highly skilled workmanship.