On August 29, 2024, the Indian Navy commissioned its second Arihant-Class submarine, INS Arighaat, at a ceremony held in Visakhapatnam. The event marked a significant milestone in India’s naval capabilities, with the presence of Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, who hailed the induction of INS Arighaat as a critical enhancement to India’s nuclear triad.
In his address, Rajnath Singh expressed confidence that INS Arighaat would play a crucial role in bolstering India’s nuclear deterrence, helping to establish a strategic balance and ensuring peace in the region.
He emphasized that the submarine’s commissioning is not just a technological achievement but also a testament to the Indian government’s unwavering commitment to achieving ‘Aatmanirbharta’ (self-reliance) in defense under the leadership of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi.
“Arighaat will further strengthen India’s nuclear triad, enhance nuclear deterrence, help in establishing strategic balance and peace in the region, and play a decisive role in the security of the country,” Rajnath Singh stated.
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He praised the hard work and synergy of the Indian Navy, the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO), and the Indian industry in achieving this capability. Rajnath Singh also highlighted that the project has given a significant boost to the country’s industrial sector, particularly MSMEs, creating numerous employment opportunities.
Reflecting on the legacy of former Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee, whose political will positioned India as a nuclear weapon state, Shri Rajnath Singh remarked, “Today, India is surging ahead to become a developed country. It is essential for us to develop rapidly in every field, including defence, especially in today’s geopolitical scenario. Along with economic prosperity, we need a strong military. Our government is working on mission mode to ensure that our soldiers possess top-quality weapons and platforms made on Indian soil.”
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The construction of INS Arighaat was a complex process, involving advanced design and manufacturing technology, detailed research and development, the use of special materials, and highly skilled craftsmanship. What sets INS Arighaat apart is its incorporation of indigenous systems and equipment, which were conceptualized, designed, manufactured, and integrated by Indian scientists, industry professionals, and Naval personnel.
The technological advancements made on INS Arighaat make it significantly more advanced than its predecessor, INS Arihant. With both INS Arihant and INS Arighaat*now operational, India’s ability to deter potential adversaries and safeguard its national interests has been greatly enhanced. This strategic capability underscores India’s growing self-reliance in defense and its commitment to ensuring national security in an increasingly complex geopolitical landscape.
