Indian Navy likely to commission third indigenous N-powered submarine by April-May
Times of India
by SURENDRA SINGHFebruary 19, 2026
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India’s sea-based nuclear deterrent is set to receive a significant boost with the imminent commissioning of its third indigenous Arihant-class nuclear-powered ballistic missile submarine, INS Aridhaman (designated S4), expected by April-May. This marks a crucial milestone in India's strategic defense capabilities, as it will enhance the country’s ability to maintain a credible nuclear deterrent at sea.
INS Aridhaman, built under the Advanced Technology Vessel (ATV) project in Visakhapatnam, is larger and more capable than its predecessors INS Arihant and INS Arighaat. At 7,000 tonnes, it features advanced missile capabilities, including 24 K-15 Sagarika SLBMs with a range of 750 km and eight K-4 SLBMs that can reach up to 3,500 km. This makes it highly effective for targeting key regions across Asia. The submarine’s enhanced stealth features, such as advanced sonar systems (USHUS and Panchendriya) and anechoic tiles, make it difficult to detect, bolstering its role in India’s "second-strike" capability—the ability to retaliate after a nuclear attack.
The commissioning of INS Aridhaman will bring India closer to achieving its goal of Continuous At-Sea Deterrence, where at least one SSBN remains on patrol 365 days a year. This strategic shift underscores India's growing emphasis on undersea power projection and its commitment to maintaining a credible nuclear deterrent in the face of regional threats.
Additionally, India is pursuing other submarine projects, including the acquisition of an Akula-class nuclear-powered attack submarine from Russia (Chakra III) and negotiations with Germany for six advanced diesel-electric submarines equipped with Air-Independent Propulsion (AIP) technology. These initiatives come as Pakistan enhances its naval capabilities by acquiring eight Hangor-class diesel-electric attack submarines from China.
The completion of INS Aridhaman highlights India’s progress in developing indigenous nuclear-powered submarines and its growing strategic influence in the Indo-Pacific region. This advancement not only strengthens India’s nuclear deterrent but also positions it as a key player in maintaining maritime security and stability in South Asia and beyond.
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Originally published on Times of India on 2/19/2026