IISS | Joseph Dempsey, Karl Dewey
On 3 April 2026, the Indian Navy commissioned INS Aridhaman (S4), its third nuclear-powered ballistic missile submarine (SSBN), at Visakhapatnam, marking a significant step in its maturing sea-based nuclear deterrent. This development, corroborated by IISS satellite imagery, reflects India's progress towards a credible second-strike capability and a robust nuclear triad. INS Aridhaman joins INS Arihant (S2) and INS Arighaat (S3), with S4* (INS Arisudan) launched in October 2024. The fleet's operational readiness for a Continuous At-Sea Deterrent (CASD) is evolving, with the commissioning of S4* in 2027 expected to ease operational pressures. The Arihant-class boats feature varying vertical launch tubes, accommodating K-15 (700 km range) and K-4 (3,500 km range) SLBMs, with plans for a new S5 class. Concurrently, India is developing INS Varsha, a new underground submarine facility 50 km south of Visakhapatnam, to enhance security and concealment for its SSBN fleet and future generations. This strategic infrastructure and fleet expansion underscore India's deliberate progress in nuclear deterrence.
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