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Admiral Dinesh K. Tripathi revealed that the India’s nuclear-powered attack submarine (SSN) program has been greenlit by the government
NEW DELHI: The Indian Navy Chief Admiral Dinesh K. Tripathi revealed that the India’s nuclear-powered attack submarine (SSN- Ship Submersible Nuclear) program has been greenlit by the government, with the first submarine expected to be operational by 2036. Speaking at the annual press conference ahead of Navy Day in New Delhi, Admiral Tripathi emphasized the critical role this program will play in enhancing India’s naval power and its deterrence capabilities.
This year, #NavyDay will be celebrated in Puri, Odisha, on 4th December. President Droupadi Murmu will be the Chief Guest: Chief of Naval Staff Admiral DK Tripathi. #NavyDay2024 @indiannavy pic.twitter.com/Lu7uLPD9FP
— All India Radio News (@airnewsalerts) December 2, 2024
“These SSNs will significantly enhance the Navy’s ability to project power and safeguard national interests,” Admiral Tripathi stated. He added that while the first indigenously-made India’s nuclear-powered submarine is scheduled for delivery by 2036, the second one will be ready within two years. This advancement is part of a broader effort to strengthen the Indian Navy’s capabilities amidst growing maritime activities by China and Pakistan in the Indian Ocean Region (IOR).
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The Navy Chief also highlighted the strategic importance of the nuclear-powered ballistic missile submarine (SSBN) program, noting that the commissioning of INS Arighat, India’s second SSBN, marks a critical milestone in bolstering the nation’s nuclear deterrence. “INS Arighat is currently undergoing trials, including missile tests, to ensure its readiness for deterrence patrols,” he added. INS Arihant, the first of its kind, has already completed multiple deterrence patrols, offering India a credible second-strike capability as part of its nuclear doctrine.
Admiral Tripathi pointed out that the submarine program is also expected to stimulate India’s defence ecosystem, fostering industry growth and advancing self-reliance.
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On the conventional front, Admiral Tripathi mentioned that the deal for three more Scorpene-class submarines, built in partnership with France’s Naval Group under Project-75, is nearing completion. These submarines, equipped with advanced stealth features and long-range precision-strike capabilities, are seen as a vital addition to India’s underwater warfare assets. Furthermore, discussions for six additional Scorpene-class submarines under Project-75 India are also in the final stages.
One of the major technological advancements highlighted by the Navy Chief was the successful testing of the K4 submarine-launched ballistic missile, which further solidified India’s deterrence capabilities. “These advancements solidify our deterrence capabilities,” he said, reinforcing India’s commitment to ensuring its maritime security.
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In light of increasing maritime threats from neighbouring nations, particularly China and Pakistan, Admiral Tripathi stressed the importance of India’s expanding submarine fleet. “India’s submarine fleet serves as a crucial counterbalance in the face of growing maritime activities by China and Pakistan in the Indian Ocean Region,” he explained. While Pakistan’s plans to build a 50-ship fleet are ambitious given its economic constraints, China’s strategic investments in submarine technology are seen as part of its broader goal of establishing global maritime dominance.
“China’s intent, resources, and vision to become a world power are evident. However, we are ensuring that India’s interests remain uncompromised,” Admiral Tripathi asserted. He concluded by reiterating the Navy’s focus on creating a modern, self-reliant force capable of securing India’s interests across all domains, with the submarine fleet remaining a pivotal element of this transformation.
