India commissions second nuclear submarine INS Arighaat, boosts strategic defense capabilities
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India has officially commissioned its second nuclear submarine, INS Arighaat, in Visakhapatnam, marking a significant enhancement in the country's defense capabilities.
The Arihant-class submarine, which is a key component of India's nuclear triad, is set to bolster nuclear deterrence, establish strategic balance, and contribute to regional peace, according to a statement from the Ministry of Defence.
Defence Minister Rajnath Singh attended the commissioning ceremony and hailed the event as a monumental achievement for the nation. He emphasized that this milestone is a testament to the government's commitment to achieving self-reliance in defense under Prime Minister Narendra Modi's leadership.
The construction of INS Arighaat involved advanced design and manufacturing technologies, extensive research and development, the use of specialized materials, complex engineering, and the expertise of highly skilled workers, the Defence Ministry stated. The submarine is equipped with indigenous systems and equipment, conceptualized, designed, manufactured, and integrated by Indian scientists, industry professionals, and naval personnel.
Technological advancements made in the development of INS Arighaat have made it significantly more advanced than its predecessor, INS Arihant. With both submarines now in service, India's ability to deter potential adversaries and safeguard its national interests is considerably strengthened, the Ministry added.
Rajnath Singh praised the Indian Navy, the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO), and the Indian defense industry for their collective efforts in realizing this capability. He highlighted that this level of self-reliance is the cornerstone of India's "self power." The project also provided a significant boost to the country's industry, including micro, small, and medium enterprises, and created numerous jobs.
"India is rapidly progressing toward becoming a developed nation. In today's geopolitical environment, it's crucial for us to advance swiftly in all sectors, including defense," the Defence Minister stated.
He underscored the importance of having a strong military alongside economic prosperity and reaffirmed the government's mission to equip Indian soldiers with top-quality, domestically produced weapons and platforms.