Daily Current Affairs : 23-October-2024
India’s defense capabilities have recently been strengthened with the launch of its fourth nuclear-powered ballistic missile submarine (SSBN), the S4*, at the Ship Building Centre in Visakhapatnam. This submarine is an important step forward in enhancing India’s strategic deterrence, particularly in the realm of nuclear security. To understand its significance, it’s essential to know what SSBNs are, their features, and how they fit into India’s broader defense strategy.
What is a Nuclear-Powered Ballistic Missile Submarine (SSBN)?
An SSBN is a type of submarine equipped with nuclear propulsion and capable of launching ballistic missiles. The features of these submarines make them crucial for a nation’s defense, especially for nuclear deterrence.
- Nuclear Propulsion: SSBNs are powered by nuclear reactors, which allow them to remain submerged for extended periods without needing to surface. This is only limited by the need for food supplies and periodic maintenance.
- Ballistic Missile Capability: These submarines carry submarine-launched ballistic missiles (SLBMs), which can be armed with nuclear warheads. This gives them the ability to launch a retaliatory strike in case of a nuclear attack, thus providing a second-strike capability.
- Stealth: SSBNs are built for stealth. Their design minimizes the chance of detection by enemy forces, making them a formidable element of strategic deterrence.
India’s SSBN Program
India has made significant progress in developing its SSBN fleet as part of its nuclear deterrence strategy. Currently, India operates two SSBNs: INS Arihant (commissioned in 2016) and INS Arighaat (commissioned in 2024). Additionally, India is advancing its SSBN capabilities with the development of more sophisticated submarines.
- INS Arihant: Equipped with K-15 SLBMs, it has a range of 750 km.
- INS Arighaat: The second operational SSBN, launched in 2024.
- S4 Submarine*: The newly launched S4* submarine is more advanced. It will be equipped with the K-4 missile, capable of striking targets up to 3,500 km away. This increased missile range makes the S4* a crucial addition to India’s nuclear deterrent.
Importance of SSBNs in India’s Defense Strategy
The role of SSBNs in India’s defense strategy cannot be overstated. These submarines form a core part of India’s nuclear deterrence, ensuring that the country can respond to any nuclear attack, even if its land-based missiles are destroyed.
- Second-Strike Capability: The SSBNs ensure that India maintains a credible second-strike capability, which is critical in maintaining strategic stability.
- Strategic Deterrence: By being able to remain hidden beneath the ocean’s surface, SSBNs allow India to project power while minimizing the risk of being neutralized by a first-strike attack.
- Global Positioning: With the development of more advanced SSBNs, India strengthens its position as a major player in global security and nuclear deterrence.
Important Points:
India’s Fourth SSBN: The S4* is India’s fourth nuclear-powered ballistic missile submarine, launched at the Ship Building Centre in Visakhapatnam.
SSBN Features:
- Nuclear Propulsion: Allows submarines to stay submerged for long durations, limited by food and maintenance needs.
- Ballistic Missile Capability: Equipped with submarine-launched ballistic missiles (SLBMs) for nuclear deterrence.
- Stealth: Designed to minimize detection by enemy forces, crucial for strategic deterrence.
Current Indian SSBNs:
- INS Arihant: Commissioned in 2016, equipped with K-15 SLBMs (750 km range).
- INS Arighaat: Commissioned in 2024, the second operational SSBN.
Upcoming SSBNs:
- S4 Submarine*: Equipped with advanced K-4 missiles, capable of striking targets up to 3,500 km away, making it a major upgrade in missile range.
Significance of SSBNs in India’s Defense Strategy:
- Second-Strike Capability: Ensures India can retaliate with nuclear force even after a first-strike attack.
- Strategic Deterrence: SSBNs allow India to remain hidden in the vast oceans, enhancing survivability and credible deterrence.
- Global Security Positioning: Strengthens India’s standing as a key player in nuclear deterrence and global security.
Overall Impact: The S4* submarine is a crucial development for India’s nuclear deterrent, enhancing its defense and security strategy.
Why In News
India’s fourth nuclear-powered ballistic missile submarine (SSBN), referred to as S4*, was successfully launched into the waters at the Ship Building Centre in Visakhapatnam, marking a significant milestone in the country’s naval capabilities and its pursuit of a stronger nuclear deterrent. This advancement underscores India’s commitment to enhancing its strategic defense infrastructure and ensuring national security in an increasingly complex global landscape.
MCQs about Nuclear-Powered Ballistic Missile Submarine
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What is the primary function of a Nuclear-Powered Ballistic Missile Submarine (SSBN)?
A. To transport nuclear missiles across borders
B. To serve as a platform for nuclear deterrence through second-strike capability
C. To provide surveillance for the military
D. To conduct underwater mining operations
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Which missile will be carried by India’s newly launched S4* SSBN?
A. K-15 SLBM
B. K-4 SLBM
C. K-5 SLBM
D. K-10 SLBM
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Which of the following is NOT an important feature of an SSBN?
A. Nuclear propulsion allowing long periods of submersion
B. Stealth design to avoid detection
C. Equipped with ballistic missiles for nuclear deterrence
D. Ability to transport large military personnel across seas
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What strategic advantage does India gain by operating SSBNs like the S4*?
A. The ability to conduct espionage operations underwater
B. The ability to maintain a credible nuclear deterrence with second-strike capability
C. The ability to provide humanitarian aid during maritime disasters
D. The ability to dominate global oceanic trade routes
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