India’s Sea Power: Strengthening Nuclear Deterrence and Indo-Pacific Dominance

Under Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s leadership, India has cemented its status as a formidable maritime force with the commissioning of two nuclear ballistic missile submarines (SSBNs) and a strategic focus on sea-based military capabilities. The first SSBN, INS Arihant, was commissioned in 2016, followed by INS Arighaat on August 29, 2024, with the third, INS Aridaman, set for commissioning next year. This steady progression underscores Modi’s commitment to an “India First” policy and the development of a credible and indigenous nuclear deterrent with second-strike capability.

India’s naval expansion, including two aircraft carriers and a robust fleet of destroyers, frigates, and diesel attack submarines, projects power across the Indo-Pacific. The SSBNs enhance India’s access denial capabilities, deterring threats from adversaries in the region.

The Modi administration’s strategic emphasis on sub-surface deterrence over large surface platforms is evident in the priority given to nuclear-powered and advanced diesel submarines. This shift aligns with growing concerns over China’s expanding naval presence, including hydrographic surveys and submarine operations near Indian waters. As China advances satellite tracking of submarines, India’s pivot towards a sea-based military doctrine marks a significant evolution from its traditional land-based focus, ensuring dominance in the Indian Ocean and beyond.