The Modi government has approved the construction of two nuclear-powered attack submarines, emphasizing sub-surface deterrence in response to escalating Chinese naval presence in the Indian Ocean. This strategic shift reflects a prioritization of nuclear capabilities over traditional carriers, as India faces evolving threats from China, particularly following conflicts in Ladakh and increasing Chinese maritime activities in the region. The overall aim is to enhance India’s national security and safeguard critical trade routes.

The government of Prime Minister Narendra Modi has taken significant steps to bolster India’s naval capabilities amid increasing Chinese military presence in the Indian Ocean Region (IOR). With the recent approval for the construction of two nuclear-powered attack submarines, India is prioritizing sub-surface deterrence over traditional surface naval power, particularly aircraft carriers, which are perceived as more susceptible to advancements in Chinese ballistic missile technology. The growing presence of Chinese naval assets, averaging eleven military ships per month since the beginning of 2023, raises alarms for Indian defense planners. Ships such as the Xiang Yang Hong 3 are currently monitoring the south coast of India, with additional vessels operating around Mauritius, highlighting the strategic threat posed by China’s expanded naval capabilities. Recognizing this shift, India aims to enhance its deterrence posture with an emphasis on nuclear submarines. Although India boasts two operational nuclear ballistic missile submarines, the upcoming commissioning of the INS Aridhaman next year will augment this fleet. The earlier models, such as INS Arihant, are primarily equipped with K-15 missiles, while newer models will feature the longer-range K-4 missiles, enhancing India’s second-strike capability. Furthermore, India is set to receive another Akula-class submarine on lease from Russia by 2028, although delays have emerged due to geopolitical tensions stemming from the Russian invasion of Ukraine. This too signals India’s strategic pivot towards focusing on Chinese maritime threats, as Pakistan’s role as the principal adversary appears diminished. The Modi administration’s commitment to acquiring three additional Kalvari-class diesel submarines also reflects an effort to establish India as a manufacturing hub for advanced submarines, in collaboration with French naval technology, thereby enhancing regional security capabilities. Overall, the shifts in Indian naval strategy underscore a determined stance to ensure security in the IOR against a backdrop of growing Chinese military assertiveness and the necessity of maintaining safe maritime trade routes critical for India’s economy. Ultimately, the Indian Navy’s strategic future will heavily depend on its nuclear capabilities, positioning it to effectively counterbalance challenges posed by China and its proxies in the Indo-Pacific region.

The topic of India’s naval strategy relates directly to the complex geopolitical dynamics in the Indo-Pacific region, particularly regarding China’s expanding maritime influence. Since 2023, the increased presence of Chinese naval vessels in the Indian Ocean has prompted India to reassess its defense strategy. Given the vulnerabilities of conventional naval forces, such as aircraft carriers, to long-range missile threats, India’s focus on developing nuclear submarines represents a shift towards more effective deterrence mechanisms. This evolution in military capability is indicative of broader geopolitical trends, including India’s recognition of China as a primary security challenge, particularly in light of recent conflicts like the skirmishes in Ladakh in 2020.

In conclusion, the Modi government’s strategic prioritization of nuclear-powered submarines over traditional surface naval assets highlights India’s response to evolving military threats from China. Approving the construction of advanced submarines and enhancing collaboration with global partners signify a clear shift in India’s defense strategy aimed at ensuring national security and safeguarding maritime interests in a contentious regional landscape. Moving forward, India’s naval capabilities will increasingly hinge on its nuclear options, reinforcing the country’s deterrent posture in the face of Chinese assertiveness.

Original Source: www.hindustantimes.com

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