Post by : Rameen Ariff

India has finalised a landmark $2 billion deal to lease a nuclear-powered attack submarine from Russia, marking a major step in the expansion of its naval capabilities. The agreement comes after nearly a decade of negotiations and coincides with Russian President Vladimir Putin’s visit to New Delhi, underlining the continued strategic ties between the two nations. Indian officials visited a Russian shipyard in November to inspect the vessel, which is expected to be delivered within the next two years, though the complex nature of the project may extend the timeline.

The leased submarine cannot be deployed in combat under the terms of the agreement, but it will play a crucial role in training Indian sailors and refining the country’s nuclear submarine operations as it develops its own fleet of nuclear-powered vessels. India currently operates 17 diesel-electric submarines, but nuclear-powered submarines offer significant advantages, including larger size, extended underwater endurance, quieter operation, and greater strategic deterrence. The country has also developed submarine-launched ballistic missiles (SLBMs), providing a triad capability across land, sea, and air.

India’s Chief of Naval Staff, Dinesh K Tripathi, indicated that the commissioning of the new attack submarine would be imminent, adding that it will be larger than the two nuclear-powered submarines already in the Indian Navy. The Russian vessel will remain with India for a decade, with the lease covering maintenance and operational support. Previous leased submarines from Russia were returned after a similar 10-year period.

The Indian Ocean is becoming increasingly significant for global strategic interests, with countries like Australia collaborating with the US and UK under the AUKUS partnership to build advanced nuclear submarines. Only a select group of nations, including the US, UK, France, China, and Russia, currently possess the technology to operate nuclear-powered submarines. South Korea is also developing similar vessels in partnership with the US.

Despite expanding defence and strategic cooperation with the United States and European nations, India continues to maintain strong ties with Moscow. Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s decision to lease nuclear submarines from Russia demonstrates India’s comfort in balancing relations with both powers while securing critical military platforms. The country’s third ballistic missile submarine is expected to join the naval nuclear forces next year, and plans are underway to build two additional nuclear-powered attack submarines.

This submarine deal not only strengthens India’s naval capabilities but also highlights its strategic autonomy and ability to pursue advanced defence technology while maintaining a delicate balance in international relations. The leased vessel will allow India to train its personnel, refine its operational strategies, and prepare for the future expansion of its nuclear submarine fleet, which is increasingly essential for the security of the Indian Ocean region.

This milestone comes at a time when India is simultaneously deepening ties with the US, showcasing its ability to maintain strong relationships with multiple global powers while advancing its national security interests. The submarine lease is a testament to India’s long-term defence planning and its commitment to enhancing its maritime power through strategic partnerships and technological advancement.

#India News