Understanding India's Indigenous Nuclear Submarine

The question asks to identify the name of India's recently launched and indigenously built nuclear submarine. India has made significant advancements in defence technology, including the development of nuclear submarines domestically.

Analysing the Options

Let's look at the given options:

• INS Virat: This was an aircraft carrier of the Indian Navy, decommissioned in 2017. It was not a submarine, nor was it indigenously built in the context of recent launches.
• INS Arihant: This is the name of India's first indigenously built nuclear-powered submarine. It is the lead vessel of the Arihant class of nuclear-powered ballistic missile submarines.
• INS Vikrant: India has had aircraft carriers named Vikrant. The first INS Vikrant was India's first aircraft carrier, and a new indigenously built aircraft carrier, also named INS Vikrant, was commissioned in 2022. Neither is a submarine.
• INS Samrat: This name is not widely associated with a major, recently launched warship or submarine in the Indian Navy.

Identifying the Correct Name

Based on the analysis, the name of India's first indigenously built nuclear submarine is INS Arihant. It represents a major milestone in India's defence capabilities, particularly its nuclear deterrent, as it is capable of carrying nuclear-tipped ballistic missiles.

The INS Arihant is a nuclear-powered ballistic missile submarine (SSBN). Being nuclear-powered allows it to stay submerged for much longer periods compared to conventional submarines, making it a crucial asset for second-strike capability.

Revision Table: Indian Naval Vessels

Additional Information: INS Arihant and Nuclear Triad

The INS Arihant is a critical component of India's nuclear triad. A nuclear triad refers to the capability to launch nuclear weapons from three platforms:

• Land-based missile launchers.
• Bombers (air-based).
• Submarines (sea-based).

Submarine-launched nuclear capability is considered highly survivable, as submarines can operate undetected for long periods, providing a credible second-strike option even if land-based or air-based capabilities are neutralised in a first strike. The INS Arihant and subsequent submarines of its class strengthen the sea-based leg of India's nuclear triad.

Building a nuclear submarine indigenously requires advanced technological expertise in nuclear engineering, metallurgy, and complex system integration, highlighting India's growing capabilities in defence manufacturing and research.