By Dr. Roshan Khaniejo
India has decided to lease a second nuclear submarine from Russia. India already has a 8,140-tonne Akula Class submarine renamed INS Chakra , which was also leased from Russia in 2011. This submarine, like the previous one, can fire conventional weapons. India’s indigenously built nuclear powered submarine INS Arihant was also flagged off for its sea trials. It can carry a SLBM named K-4(Range -3500 kms.). If the trial goes as desired then within next two years India can become the sixth country in the world to have developed the niche technical capability to build and operate a nuclear submarine. India’s efforts to develop its triad capabilities will get a boost. Since India also plans to build a number of more submarines (like INS Aridhaman) under its Advanced Technology Vessel (ATV) project, it is essential to have trained personnel available to operate these subs. This may have been one of the reasons for acquiring another submarine from Russia.
Due to delays in the implementation of India’s 3- year submarine plan gaps in India’s sea denial capability have developed. Meanwhile, India’s maritime role has increased considerably. This acquisition to some extent will reduce the capability gap.
There has been an increase in the number of Chinese submarines sighted in the Indian Ocean Region, which has been a cause of concern. It is estimated that China currently has five nuclear attack submarines, four nuclear ballistic missile submarines and 53 diesel attack submarines. China with its JL-2 nuclear armed submarine will have a potential sea deterrent capability. China has currently developed its military based on the regional construct which makes it imperative for India to enhance its security preparedness. It may take time for China to become a credible competitor to Americans but as far as India is concerned, China has a clear edge both in numbers as well as missile ranges are concerned.