Modi Government Advocates for Nuclear Submarine Deterrence Against China

New Delhi: The Narendra Modi government’s recent approval for the construction of two nuclear-powered attack submarine signals India’s focus on strengthening sub-surface deterrence. Deeming it a more secure option compared to a third aircraft carrier, which is more susceptible to Chinese long-range missiles.

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Growing Chinese Submarine Presence in the Indian Ocean

The focus on sub-surface deterrence is justified, as at least 10 Chinese warships, ballistic missile trackers. And surveillance ships have been operating in the Indian Ocean Region every month since 2023. Currently, the Chinese surveillance ship Xiang Yang Hong 3 is stationed off the coast of Chennai in the South Bay of Bengal, with the ballistic missile tracker Yuan Wang 7 near Mauritius. On average, seven to eight PLA Navy warships and three to four quasi-military vessels are observed in the region. With this number expected to rise as the PLA plans long-range patrols for its carrier-based task forces.

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Nuclear Submarines Chosen to Counter China’s Growing Presence in the Indian Ocean

In response to the increasing Chinese activity in the Indian Ocean Region (IOR). National security planners have prioritized nuclear submarines to effectively monitor and deter PLA operations, particularly in the southern Indian Ocean. India currently has two nuclear ballistic missile submarines patrolling the Indo-Pacific, with a third, INS Aridhaman, set to be commissioned next year. Except for the first in the series, INS Arihant, which is equipped with 750-kilometer range K-15 nuclear ballistic missiles. All subsequent submarines carry a combination of K-15 and K-4 nuclear ballistic missiles, with the latter having a range of 3,500 kilometers.

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Acquisition of Second Akula-Class Nuclear Attack Submarine from Russia

Regarding nuclear-powered attack submarines. The Indian Navy is expected to receive a second Akula-class nuclear attack submarine on lease from Russia by 2028 at the latest. The Akula lease project has faced delays due to the ongoing war in Ukraine. However, the Indian Navy is urging Moscow to ensure the availability of the SSN by late 2027.

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