The SSNs are strategic underwater assets that are designed to conquer both the SSBN and the enemy in ocean waters, enhancing India's naval prowess manifold, maritime experts have said.
Both SSN – Submersible Ship Nuclear or commonly referred to as a fast-attack submarine and SSBN – Submersible Ship Ballistic Missile Nuclear run on the power provided by nuclear reactors, Indian Navy veteran Commander (Retd) Rahul Verma explained.
Primarily these submarines are designed to launch the structure of fast missiles or ballistic missiles with nuclear warheads, he emphasised. However, an SSN is designed to intercept and conquer both, the SSBN and the adversary, he noted.
"Besides, the SSN submarines have evolved into multi-mission submarines. Their roles include submarine-launched cruise missile platforms, intelligence gathering, and insertion and infiltration of Special Forces teams, in addition to the traditional hunter and killer role. They have longer endurance and high speed," Verma told Sputnik India on Tuesday.
Meanwhile, defence analyst Girish Linganna explained in a conversation with Sputnik India the main reasons behind India's focus on building nuclear attack submarines (SSNs) are:
1.
Longer Missions: SSNs can stay underwater for much longer than conventional submarines, which often need to surface to recharge. This makes them great for extended patrols.2.
Speed and Stealth: They are faster, hence, they are able to travel quickly and evade enemy tracking, and quieter, which makes them harder to detect.3.
Strategic Defence: In case of increasing threats, SSNs strengthen India's ability to deter potential attacks.4.
Technological Growth: Developing SSNs domestically helps India improve its technology in nuclear propulsion and submarine design, supporting the country's goal of self-reliance in defence.5.
Counteracting Threats: SSNs provide India the capability of strong response to the growing presence of Chinese submarines in the Indian Ocean and advanced submarine supplies to Pakistan.Meanwhile, the Indian Navy is currently in possession of a lone SSBN, the indigenously developed INS Arihant, which was commissioned into service in 2016.
Another SSBN named INS Arighat is currently undergoing sea trials and is set to join the nation's naval fleet later this year.
Overall, the Indian Navy will have four SSBNs under its command with two more similar submarines being built in Visakhapatnam at present.
Notably, India does not have an SSN in its fleet right now but the country is set to begin an over $12 billion project to build six SSNs to augment its underwater offensive capabilities, besides maintaining a credible nuclear deterrence against hostile neighbours.