India-Russia finalize $2bn nuclear submarine deal ahead of Putin's visit
What's the story
India has finalized a $2 billion deal with Russia to lease a nuclear-powered submarine, Bloomberg reported, citing people familiar with the matter. The agreement comes after nearly 10 years of negotiations and was finalized around the time of Russian President Vladimir Putin's visit to New Delhi. India expects delivery of the vessel within two years, though the project's complexity may cause delays, the sources said.
Strategic advantage
Nuclear submarine to enhance India's maritime capabilities
The nuclear-powered submarine will be a significant addition to India's maritime capabilities. The vessel will be larger than two existing submarines in the Indian Navy's fleet. Ahead of Putin's visit, India's Chief of Naval Staff Dinesh K Tripathi told reporters this week that the attack submarine would be commissioned soon but did not provide any details.
Lease details
Submarine lease terms and training benefits
Under the lease terms, the Russian attack submarine cannot be used in war. Instead, it will help India train sailors and refine nuclear-boat operations as it builds its own vessels. The leased vessel will be with India's Navy for 10 years, with maintenance included in the contract. This development comes as Australia partners with the UK and US to build similar boats under the AUKUS security partnership.
Defense diversification
India currently operates 17 diesel-powered submarinesÂ
Only a few countries, like the US, UK, France, China, and Russia, have possessed the technology to build and use nuclear-powered submarines until now. Nuclear-powered vessels are far superior to diesel-electric competitors. They are often larger, can stay underwater for much longer, and are quieter, making them difficult to track, particularly while patrolling the wide expanses of the Indian and Pacific oceans. The Nuclear Threat Initiative reported that India currently operates 17 diesel-powered submarines.