INS Aridhaman, India's 3rd nuclear-powered submarine, to be commissioned today
What's the story
INS Aridaman, India's third indigenous nuclear-powered submarine, will be commissioned into the Indian Navy on Friday by defense minister Rajnath Singh, ANI reported. Ahead of the event, Singh shared on X, saying, "It's not just a word, it's a symbol of power. 'Aridhaman'!" The submarine will strengthen India's sea-based nuclear deterrent with longer-range missile capabilities.
Sea trials
Aridhaman ready to join fleet of SSBNs
INS Aridhaman has completed its final phase of sea trials and is ready to be commissioned into the Strategic Forces Command. The submarine will join its predecessors INS Arihant (commissioned in 2016) and INS Arighaat (commissioned in August 2024). The announcement comes as Singh visits Visakhapatnam, India's nuclear submarine hub, where he will commission the advanced stealth frigate Taragiri.
Submarine specs
Specifications of INS Aridhaman
INS Aridhaman displaces around 7,000 tons and has a more streamlined hull for improved stealth. It is powered by an upgraded 83 MW pressurized water reactor developed by the Bhabha Atomic Research Centre (BARC). Unlike its predecessors, Aridhaman has eight vertical launch tubes, allowing it to carry either eight K-4 long-range missiles or up to 24 K-15 missiles.
Deterrence capability
Continuous at-sea deterrence for India
The induction of INS Aridhaman will ensure "continuous at-sea deterrence" for India, with at least one nuclear-armed submarine on patrol all the time. Currently, India operates two SSBNs: INS Arihant and INS Arighaat. A fourth unnamed SSBN is also planned to follow soon after. With a fleet of four submarines, India would have true second-strike capability against any potential adversaries.
Frigate details
Taragiri frigate to be commissioned on April 5
Meanwhile, the Taragiri is powered by a Combined Diesel or Gas (CODOG) propulsion system, making it suitable for multi-dimensional maritime operations. It features a sleek hull and reduced Radar Cross-Section for enhanced stealth. Its armament includes supersonic Surface-to-Surface Missiles, Medium-Range Surface-to-Air Missiles, and an advanced Anti-Submarine Warfare suite integrated with a state-of-the-art Combat Management System.