INDIA’S UNDERSEA WARFARE: SCIENCE
& TECHNOLOGY /DEFENCE
NEWS: Pointing the beacon at India’s
undersea warfare capabilities
WHAT’S IN THE NEWS?
In 2024, the Indian Navy made significant strides with the commissioning of
INS Arighaat, expansion of Operation Sankalp, and advancements in undersea
warfare, including the successful test of the K-4 SLBM. These efforts
strengthen India's nuclear deterrence, undersea capabilities, and strategic
maritime partnerships.
Key Developments in the Indian
Navy (2024)
- Operation
Sankalp Expansion: Extended to the Red Sea
to counter piracy and secure international shipping.
- INS
Arighaat: India’s second indigenous nuclear-powered ballistic
missile submarine (SSBN) commissioned, boosting the nuclear triad.
- K-4
SLBM Test: Successfully tested submarine-launched ballistic
missile with a 3,500-km range, covering most of China.
- Project-77:
Cabinet approved construction of two nuclear-powered attack submarines
(SSNs) at ₹40,000 crore, with over 90% indigenous content, delivery by
2036-37.
- INS
Vaghsheer: Sixth Scorpene-class submarine under Project-75 set
for commissioning.
- Future
Plans:
- Order
for three more Scorpene-class submarines.
- Project-75(I)
for air-independent propulsion-enabled submarines.
- Construction
of 100-tonne Unmanned Underwater Vehicles (UUVs) at ₹2,500 crore.
Strategic Implications
- Strengthens
India’s blue-water navy capabilities, ensuring maritime security and
stability.
- Aligns
with SAGAR (Security and Growth for All in the Region) and supports a
free, open, and inclusive Indo-Pacific.
What is a Blue-Water Navy?
- A naval
force capable of operating globally across deep oceans.
Source: https://www.thehindu.com/opinion/op-ed/pointing-the-beacon-at-indias-undersea-warfare-capabilities/article69016503.ece#:~:text=The%20addition%20of%20the%20SSNs,nation%20operating%20SSBNs%20and%20SSNs