India has made significant strides in enhancing its naval capabilities, especially in submarine warfare. In recent years, efforts to modernize its submarine fleet have gained momentum, with the recent launch of the fourth nuclear-powered ballistic missile submarine at the Ship Building Center in Visakhapatnam being a key development. This new submarine, featuring 75% indigenous content and armed with Kalam-4 ballistic missiles (3,500 km range), is a testament to India’s growing expertise in indigenously developing advanced naval platforms. Despite these advancements, India continues to face considerable challenges in keeping pace with regional competitors like China.
India’s current nuclear submarine fleet consists of INS Arihant, INS Arighaat, and INS Aridhaman, with another Akula-class nuclear-powered attack submarine set to join the fleet on lease from Russia in 2028. However, the lease of INS Chakra, another Akula-class submarine leased from Russia in 2012, ended in 2022. India also plans to bolster its conventional submarine force, with a project underway to build three more advanced diesel attack submarines in collaboration with the French Naval Group.
However, experts argue that despite these advances, India has fallen behind, particularly when compared to China’s superior naval capabilities. While submarines have played pivotal roles in naval warfare since World War I, the stakes are much higher in today’s geopolitical landscape. India must address its modernisation delays to counter the growing influence of China and safeguard its strategic interests in the Indian Ocean region.
Overview of India’s Submarine Fleet
India’s submarine fleet can be categorized into three main types: Diesel-Electric Submarines (SSKs), Nuclear-Powered Attack Submarines (SSNs), and Nuclear-Powered Ballistic Missile Submarines (SSBNs). Each type plays a critical role in enhancing India’s defense capabilities.
| Submarine Type | Key Features | Current Indian Fleet |
|---|---|---|
| Diesel-Electric Submarines (SSK) | – Powered by diesel engines and electric motors. – Limited endurance and must frequently resurface for air. – Easier to detect than nuclear submarines. |
– India has 15 SSKs in total. – Four Shishumar Class built with German collaboration. – Eight Kilo Class/Sindhughosh Class from Russia. – Three Kalvari Class Scorpene Submarines (P-75) built in collaboration with France’s Naval Group. – Further development under P-75I project. |
| Nuclear-Powered Attack Submarines (SSN) | – Powered by nuclear reactors. – Unlimited range and endurance. – Equipped with tactical weapons like torpedoes and cruise missiles. – Operates almost indefinitely underwater. |
– India is among the six nations with SSNs. – Currently, INS Chakra, leased from Russia, was returned in 2022. – A new Russian Akula-class SSN expected in 2028. – Plan for more SSNs in the future as part of the overall naval buildup. |
| Nuclear-Powered Ballistic Missile Submarines (SSBN) | – Stealthy nuclear weapons launch platforms. – Integral to India’s nuclear deterrence strategy. – Can carry ballistic missiles with nuclear warheads. |
– India’s current SSBN fleet includes INS Arihant and INS Arighaat. – Two more SSBNs under construction, part of Strategic Forces Command. – Arighaat armed with Kalam-4 missiles (range of 3,500 km). – These SSBNs provide second-strike capability, critical for India’s strategic nuclear posture. |
Delays in India’s Modernisation Plans
India’s ambitious 30-year submarine modernisation plan, approved in 1999, aimed to build 24 submarines by 2030. However, the project has seen significant delays. For instance, the P-75 project, which was meant to deliver six new submarines by 2012-15, was only signed in 2005. So far, only three Kalvari Class Scorpene submarines have been delivered, and the P-75I project is yet to be launched.
The delays in the development of the Air Independent Propulsion (AIP) system and the cancellation of key deals, like the Black Shark torpedoes, have further hindered India’s submarine capabilities. Additionally, India faces significant shortages in crucial naval components, including Advanced Towed Array Sonars (ATAS) and heavyweight torpedoes for detecting and neutralizing enemy submarines.
The Challenge from China
China’s rapid naval buildup poses the most significant challenge to India’s aspirations. China has the world’s largest navy with over 350 warships, including 50 conventional and 10 nuclear submarines. Its Type 094 Jin-class SSBNs, which are equipped with long-range ballistic missiles, give China a significant edge over India.
India’s relative disadvantage in terms of submarine firepower and numbers is a growing concern. The Indian government’s focus on army modernization, with less attention to the navy, has led to a lag in submarine advancements. While India has geographic advantages in the Indian Ocean, its underwater fleet lacks the strength to effectively counter China.
Way Forward
India must expedite its modernisation efforts to address the shortfall in naval capabilities. The strategic partnership model under P-75I and continued collaboration with foreign partners like Russia and France are essential for meeting future defense needs. Increased investment in the navy and reformed decision-making processes are critical to ensuring that India can maintain a competitive stance in the Indo-Pacific, particularly against China’s expanding naval power.
In conclusion, while India’s submarine fleet is developing, it must overcome delays and strengthen its underwater prowess to secure its strategic interests in an increasingly contested maritime environment.