India's nuclear sub-marine programme is one the most difficult weapons development programs in the entire world. The program includes the design and construction of nuclear powered ballistic missile submarines, their equipping with missiles, and installing submarine control systems.
The Indian Navy plans to construct six 6,000-ton nuclear-powered attack submarines (SSNs), which will cost 960 billion rupees and take a decade or more to build. Despite being lobbied by the Navy Chief at a meeting Combined Commanders in March 2020 for the project, senior bureaucrats have questioned why such costly vessels were necessary.
The SSBN (strategic ballistic missile submarine) can carry eight submarine-launched, cruise missiles. It can also launch deep-water torpedoes and mines via its automated command information system.
Military experts say the SSBNs can be used to counter Chinese aggression in the Indian Ocean, and the Pacific. This role is crucial because Beijing has built up a naval force to prevent any Indian attack.
The SSBNs will be able to act as a nuclear counterweight to any Chinese or other threat to India. The SSBNs are considered the backbone to India's nuclear weapons arsenal. They can carry a large amount of nuclear weapons and can also launch submarine-launched cruise missile attacks.
Additionally, the SSBNs could also be used to deliver nuclear weapons against other countries. They can carry many nuclear bombs or other munitions which can be used to demolish a target in the air or on the ground.
Another goal of the SSBNs will be to increase the survivability and range of India's existing nuclear missile forces. The SSBNs will have long-range antiship cruise missiles capable of reaching a range up to 60 miles.
Currently, the SSBNs in construction at a secret naval station in Visakhapatnam (a part of Southern Naval Command) are. They are currently being fitted-out and subject to sea trials before being commissioned.
Arihant, The First Home-Made Submarine Armament
Arihant, the first of the Indian-made nuclear submarines, was launched on 26 July 2009, the anniversary of Vijay Diwas (Kargil War Victory Day). It was launched by Prime Minister Manmohan Singh's wife Gursharan Kaur. While the vessel was being floated at the naval base's dry dock, Gursharan Kaur cracked a coconut.
Arighat: INS Arighat is the second of the four-boat Arihant class and was launched in October 2015. After a series fit-outs and tests that were performed by Larsen & Toubro, the DRDO launched it.
This first float is a milestone in SSBN's program. It paves way for India's third part of its nuclear "triad". The Arihant design of the next two boats will be used and they are likely to be launched in future.
France will supply India with its overhauled Barracuda Class submarine. The vessel will have pump-jet propulsion as well as a 190-MW pressurized water plant. This deal will likely increase India's "Make in India" program and provide a significant boost to its nuclear defense capabilities.