Context :
  • India is set to induct its third nuclear-powered ballistic missile submarine (SSBN), INS Aridhaman, significantly boosting its strategic deterrence capabilities.
  • Built under the Advanced Technology Vessel (ATV) Project at the Ship Building Centre, Visakhapatnam.
Indian SSBNs :
  • The 1st SSBN is INS Arihant, commissioned in 2016.
  • The 2nd is INS Arighaat, commissioned in August 2024.
  • INS Aridhaman is the 3rd in the series, set for induction in late 2025
About INS Aridhaman
  • Part of India’s effort to complete the nuclear triad (land, air, sea-based nuclear deterrence).

Feature

Details

Type Nuclear-powered Ballistic Missile Submarine (SSBN)
Class Arihant-class
Length ~125 m (conflicting reports: 112 m and 125 m)
Beam 15 m
Draft 10 m
Displacement ~7,000 tonnes
Crew ~95 (including officers and sailors)
Missile Capacity Capable of carrying K-4 SLBMs (3,500 km range)

STRATEGIC SIGNIFICANCE

  • Enhances India’s strike capability and nuclear deterrence.
  • Strengthens India’s commitment to no first use (NFU) and credible minimum deterrence.
  • Important step toward self-reliance in strategic defense systems.