India has taken another significant step towards bolstering its defence capabilities with the commissioning of the second Arihant-Class submarine, INS Arighaat, into the Indian Navy. The event, held in Visakhapatnam on Thursday, was graced by Defence Minister Rajnath Singh. This addition to the Navy marks a critical enhancement in India’s nuclear deterrence, further strengthening the country’s strategic defence posture.
Defence Minister Rajnath Singh expressed his confidence that INS Arighaat will significantly bolster India's nuclear triad, which plays a vital role in the nation's strategic defence framework. He highlighted that the submarine will contribute to maintaining strategic balance and peace in the region, serving as a powerful deterrent against potential threats.
Singh emphasised that the commissioning of INS Arighaat is a testament to India’s growing self-reliance in defence, a goal pursued vigorously under Prime Minister Narendra Modi's leadership.
The Defence Minister praised the collaborative efforts of the Indian Navy, the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO), and the Indian defence industry in achieving this milestone. He noted that this success reflects India's journey towards self-reliance in defence, which he described as the cornerstone of national strength.
The project has also provided a significant boost to the country's industrial sector, particularly benefiting Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs), while creating new employment opportunities.
Rajnath Singh also paid tribute to former Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee, acknowledging his pivotal role in establishing India as a nuclear-armed state. Singh underscored the importance of rapid development in all sectors, especially defence, in the current geopolitical landscape.
He stressed that, alongside economic growth, having a robust and well-equipped military is crucial for national security. The government, according to Singh, is working on a mission-mode basis to ensure that Indian soldiers are equipped with top-quality weapons and platforms, all developed and manufactured on Indian soil.
INS Arighaat's construction involved advanced design and manufacturing technologies, extensive research and development, and the use of specialised materials. The submarine is equipped with indigenous systems and equipment, conceptualised, designed, and integrated by Indian scientists, industry professionals, and naval personnel.
These technological advancements make INS Arighaat significantly more advanced than its predecessor, INS Arihant. With both INS Arihant and INS Arighaat now in service, India's capability to deter adversaries and protect its national interests is significantly enhanced.
The presence of these submarines underscores the nation's commitment to maintaining a strong and effective defence system, contributing to regional stability and security.
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