Commissioning of third SSBN increases India’s sea-based nuclear deterrent

New Delhi: India inducted its 3rd nuclear-powered ballistic missile submarine, INS Aridaman, marking a significant milestone where the nation will, for the 1st time, maintain 3 operational SSBNs at sea.

Also, India recently commissioned the stealth frigate, INS Taragiri, which will further boost the Indian Navy’s ability to secure the country’s interests in the Indian Ocean Region (IOR). 

INS Aridhaman is India’s third indigenous Arihant-class nuclear-powered ballistic missile submarine (SSBN), commissioned in April 2026 to enhance the nation's sea-based nuclear deterrence. It is a larger, more powerful, and more heavily armed variant of its predecessors, featuring upgraded reactors and enhanced missile capacity.

Key Details of INS Aridhaman (S4):Commissioning: Commissioned into the Indian Navy as of April 2026.

Capacity: Features a modified design with four additional launch tubes compared to INS Arihant, effectively doubling its capability.

Armament: It can carry eight 3,500km-range K-4 missiles or 24 750km-range K-15 missiles.

Structure: Has an estimated displacement of approximately 7,000 tonnes, being 1,000–2,000 tonnes larger than earlier Arihant-class submarines, offering improved stealth and endurance.

Role: Operates under India's Strategic Forces Command, enhancing the underwater leg of India's nuclear triad to ensure a robust second-strike capability.The vessel was constructed at the Ship Building Centre in Visakhapatnam. It is considered vital for India's maritime strategy in the Indian Ocean.