India's Indigenous Nuclear Submarine 'Aridaman' Set to Join Fleet, Boosting National Defense Capabilities
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India is strengthening its naval capabilities with the upcoming commissioning of its third indigenous nuclear-powered submarine, 'Aridaman'. The submarine is currently undergoing final trials and is expected to be operational soon. In a recent press conference, Navy Chief Admiral Dinesh K Tripathi highlighted the Indian Navy's key role in Operation Sindoor, a recent maritime operation that forced the Pakistan Navy to remain close to their ports. The operation, which remains ongoing, has put a significant strain on Pakistan's economy, with many merchant ships avoiding the country and insurance costs rising sharply. The Indian Navy has been focusing on boosting its combat prowess, and Admiral Tripathi announced that the process to acquire six stealth submarines under Project 75 India is nearing completion. Additionally, the Navy will receive the first four of 26 Rafale-M fighter jets in 2028, as part of a ₹64,000 crore deal with France. India's nuclear-powered submarine programme is a closely guarded project, but it's an essential component of the country's nuclear triad. With the commissioning of 'Aridaman', India will join a select group of countries with nuclear-powered submarines, including the US, Russia, the UK, France, and China. India has been a leading voice in promoting universal nuclear disarmament, aiming for the complete elimination of atomic weapons. The country's nuclear doctrine, established in 2003, clearly outlines its 'no first use' policy, and India has maintained a credible minimum deterrence posture since conducting nuclear tests in 1998.
