Akula Class Submarine, Features, Role, Importance, INS Chakra

The Akula Class Submarine is a type of nuclear-powered attack submarine developed by Russia. These submarines are designed for stealth, speed, and long-duration operations under the sea. They play an important role in naval defence by tracking enemy ships and submarines, gathering intelligence, and protecting maritime interests.

Akula Class Submarine

• The Akula Class Submarine is a nuclear-powered attack submarine designed and built by Russia.It is designed to operate underwater for long periods without needing to surface, making it highly effective and difficult to detect.
• These submarines are used for various purposes such as tracking enemy submarines, protecting naval forces, and gathering intelligence. Known for their speed, stealth, and advanced technology, they are considered an important part of modern naval strength.
• India has also operated Akula Class Submarines on lease from Russia, mainly for training and strengthening its underwater defence capabilities.

Types of Submarines

Submarines can be broadly classified based on how they are powered and their roles:

• Conventional Submarines: These are powered by diesel engines and electric batteries. They need to surface regularly to recharge batteries. Example: Project-75 class submarines.
• Nuclear Powered Ballistic Submarines (SSBN): These use nuclear energy, allowing them to stay underwater for long periods. Their main role is strategic deterrence by carrying nuclear missiles. Example: INS Arihant.
• Nuclear Powered Attack Submarines (SSN): These are also nuclear-powered submarines but are mainly used for attack and defence operations. They can move faster, stay submerged longer, and carry advanced weapons like torpedoes and cruise missiles. Example: Akula Class submarine.

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INS Chakra Submarines

INS Chakra I, II, and III are nuclear-powered attack submarines (SSNs) leased by India from Russia. These submarines have helped India train its naval personnel and strengthen its underwater defence capabilities.

Overview of INS Chakra Submarines

• INS Chakra I (1988-1991): A Charlie-class submarine leased from the Soviet Union. It was India’s first experience operating a nuclear-powered submarine.
• INS Chakra II (2012-2021): An Akula Class Submarine (earlier called Nerpa) leased for 10 years. It played a key role in training and operational readiness before being returned to Russia.
• INS Chakra III (Expected 2027-2028): An upgraded Akula Class Submarine currently under lease agreement. It is expected to further enhance India’s naval strength once inducted.

Benefits of Akula Class Submarine

• Training advantage: Helps Indian Navy personnel gain practical experience in operating nuclear-powered attack submarines, useful for future indigenous platforms like Arihant-class and planned SSNs.
• Stronger naval capability: Enhances India’s underwater warfare strength, especially for long-duration missions in deep seas.
• Strategic deployment in the Indian Ocean: Can be positioned at key points in the Indian Ocean Region, improving surveillance and quick response capability.
• Deterrence value: Their stealth and endurance act as a strong deterrent against potential adversaries.
• Boost to blue-water navy goal: Supports India’s aim of becoming a full-spectrum maritime power with global reach.
• Support for indigenous development: Provides learning in nuclear propulsion, design, and maintenance, helping India’s own SSN development programme.
• Symbol of India-Russia defence ties: Reflects deep defence cooperation between India and Russia, especially in sensitive nuclear submarine technology.