Islamabad: The Indian Navy has recently launched its fourth nuclear powered submarine. Discussion has intensified in the defense circles of Pakistan regarding this nuclear submarine (SSBN) equipped with ballistic missile. Pakistan’s defense experts are calling this the growing strength of the Indian Navy. Dr. Mansoor Ahmed, Honorary Lecturer in Strategic and Defense Studies, National University of Australia, discussed India’s growing nuclear power in the sea with World Eco News host Muhammad Ali. Mansoor Ahmed said that the Indian Navy needs accurate and reliable To establish deterrence, it will require a stockpile of 300 nuclear warheads for its SSBN fleet by 2035 and it is working in that direction. India currently operates two Arihant class nuclear powered ballistic submarines (SSBNs). It has two more advanced SSBNs, which are nearing next generation operational status.
Fleet of 6 nuclear submarines
Going forward, it is planned to induct three more SSBNs of the next generation S5 class, which will turn it into a powerful fleet of six large nuclear-capable submarines. The induction of submarines shows that India is focused on strengthening its nuclear capability. Along with this, attacking capability has also increased, which will play an important role in its comprehensive defense strategy.
Ahmed’s assessment of 300 nuclear weapons for the SSBN fleet is based on payload capabilities on multiple platforms. Each submarine can carry multiple ballistic missiles, each potentially carrying multiple warheads. This will ensure India’s ability to respond from sea-based platforms.
India’s strategic advantage
Pakistani expert said India’s nuclear-powered submarine expansion is expected to impact South Asian strategic stability. This will provide India a strategic edge given the nuclear weapons rivalry in India’s neighbourhood. The ability to deploy multiple warheads in submarine fleets would introduce new advances in nuclear weapons. Being nuclear powered, it provides India’s SSBN fleet with the capability to cross the Indian Ocean.