In a major step towards achieving self-reliance in nuclear technology, India has activated the atomic reactor on board nuclear powered submarine INS Arihant. The nuclear reactor capable of generating 83 MW power will help the indigenously designed and manufactured submarine to remain underwater for more than six months at a stretch thereby evading enemy surveillance. This submarine will also be capable of launching ballistic missiles.
This significant breakthrough, made late on Friday, has propelled India into the elite league of five nations who have nuclear powered submarines including US, UK, China, France and Russia. Moreover, the capability to launch nuclear weapon tipped long range ballistic missile will enable India to counter China which has a substantial number of submarine launched ballistic missiles(SlBMs).
Defence Research and Development Organistation (DRDO) scientists achieved the important milestone on Friday night when the nuclear reactor on board Arihant went critical at the submarine's Vishakhapatnam base. These reactors can generate 83 MW thereby enabling the submarine to remain under water for long periods unlike the diesel propelled engines. At present, all the 15-odd submarines with the Indian Navy are diesel-run and have to come up to surface after some days for refueling.
This poses grave danger of detection by enemy's radars, anti-submarine ships, helicopters and aircraft. Moreover, diesel engines generate sound when the submarine is moving underwater and the sound signatures can be picked up by electronic surveillance. However, the nuclear powered submarines are silent and very difficult to detect as there are virtually negligible noise signatures and the platform can remain underwater for more than six months at a stretch.