India commissioned INS Aridaman, its third indigenously built nuclear-powered ballistic missile submarine, marking a major milestone in the country’s strategic defence capability.
The commissioning strengthens the naval leg of India’s nuclear triad and enhances its underwater deterrence power.
Defence Minister Rajnath Singh attended the ceremony at a naval base in Kerala. He described the submarine as a symbol of India’s growing strength, posting a cryptic message on social media: “It’s not words but power, Aridman.”
INS Aridaman follows INS Arihant and INS Arighat, the first two submarines under India’s SSBN (Ship Submersible Ballistic Nuclear) programme. The vessel completed extensive sea trials before joining service. India now joins an elite group of nations — including the US, Russia, the UK, France, and China — that operate nuclear-powered ballistic missile submarines.
The submarine represents a leap in indigenous defence technology. It is designed for long-range deterrence patrols and can remain submerged for extended periods, ensuring second-strike capability. Defence analysts say the addition of INS Aridaman significantly boosts India’s maritime strategic posture in the Indo-Pacific region.
India’s focus now turns to expanding its underwater nuclear capabilities, complementing its proven land and air-based nuclear assets. The commissioning of INS Aridaman underscores the country’s commitment to self-reliance in defence manufacturing and its growing role as a regional security power.
