Why in News?
India has achieved another milestone in its strategic defence capability with the commissioning of INS Aridhaman, its third nuclear-powered ballistic missile submarine (SSBN).
INS Aridhaman:
- INS Aridhaman (S4) is India’s third indigenously developed SSBN.
- It is part of the Arihant-class submarines.
- Developed under the Advanced Technology Vessel (ATV) project.
- Represents a major advancement in indigenous defence technology.
What is India’s SSBN Programme?
India’s SSBN Programme is a highly classified, indigenous project aimed at constructing nuclear-powered ballistic missile submarines (SSBNs) to establish a credible, sea-based second-strike capability.
- SSBN stands for ship submersible ballistic nuclear or nuclear-powered ballistic missile submarines.
Current Status of India’s SSBN Fleet (as of April 2026):
- INS Arihant (S2): Commissioned in 2016.
- INS Arighaat (S3): Commissioned in August 2024.
- INS Aridhaman (S4): Commissioned in April 2026.
- S4 (likely INS Arisudan):* Currently undergoing sea trials, expected commissioning in 2027
