Indian Nukes Are Now Sea Worthy (Revelation 16)

Indian submarine INS Arihant begins sea trials

By Mail Today Bureau

Published: 19:37 EST, 15 December 2014 | Updated: 09:13 EST, 16 December 2014

India’s indigenously-built nuclear submarine INS Arihant ventured into the sea for the first time on Monday, marking a crucial stride towards achieving the long-pending strategic objective of having a nuclear triad.

There was no official word from the government over the commencement of the sea trial, which was reportedly flagged off by Defence Minister Manohar Parrikar.

The minister flew to Vishakhapatnam from Goa to join the team of experts led by Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) chief Avinash Chander.

Anticipation of the highly secret project achieving the major development landmark had grown after Navy Chief Admiral R.K. Dhowan had claimed earlier this month that the nation would hear on Arihant “very soon”.

It took almost one-and-a-half years for the submarine to be ready for sea trials after its nuclear reactor went critical on August 10, 2013.

The entire programme has progressed at a slow pace since the submarine was launched in 2009. It had undergone extensive harbour trials before it was brought out to the sea.

Even after the commencement of the sea trials, it will take more than a year for the submarine to join the naval fleet.

The 6000-tonne vessel remained partially submerged as it would be some time before it would dive into the depths of the sea.

The submarine is powered by 83 MW pressurised light water reactor.

The development of the submarine is crucial as it provides the third leg in nuclear triad, with the capacity to launch a nuclear missile from the depth of the ocean.

India already has the capability to launch a nuclear weapon from surface and air. The nuclear powered ballistic missile submarine (SSBN) is first in the series of five boats planned by India.

After the first step, it will undergo submerged sea trials followed by weapon firing.

As of now, India operates a nuclear submarine, INS Chakra, leased from Russia for 10 years.